Causes

The cause of dysthymia is not known. It is thought that changes in the brain’s production of the chemical serotonin may play a role. Serotonin helps your brain handle emotions and make judgments.

Brainstem—Location of Serotonin Production

© 2009 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing dysthymia. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

• Sex: female
• Family history of major depression or dysthymia
• Chronic mental or physical illness

People who have dysthymia may also experience one or more episodes of major depression in their lifetime.