Dysthymia is a specific type of depressive disorder, differentiated from major depression disorder by a number of features. Which of the following differentiations between these two disorders is NOT valid?
A)Dysthymia often lasts longer than major depression.
B)Someone with dysthymia is likely to develop major depression.
C)Someone with major depression is likely to develop dysthymia.
D)More than half of those diagnosed with dysthymia have a comorbid psychiatric disorder or chronic physical illness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dysthymia and major depression are different points on the same mood spectrum. Milder depression (dysthymia) may intensify to the level of major depression. However, once a major depressive episode has occurred, a patient is not considered to be dysthymic even when symptoms of severe depression abate.

Dysthymia Is a Specific Type of Depressive Disorder, Differentiated from Major