Current therapeutic approaches for dysthymic disorder

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the literature regarding current treatments for dysthymic disorder. We will first discuss definitions of dysthymic disorder, demographics of these patients, clinical course and family history. We will then review treatment studies for psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and combined treatment, discuss treatment guidelines for dysthymic disorder, render an ‘expert opinion’ regarding problems in the definition of dysthymic disorder, elaborate on areas for future research and speculate on a ‘five-year view.’

• dysthymic disorder
• pharmacotherapy
• psychotherapy