Love, CJ

  As a student journalist, I frequently find myself digging into issues concerning the well-being of our fellow students. Today, I'd like to show some light on a problem that affects many students in silence: dysthymia, commonly known as persistent depressive disorder.   Dysthymia, often known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD), is a chronic form of depression that can last for years. Unlike the disorder known as major depressive disorder (MDD), dysthymia symptoms are chronic and can have a significant impact on one's quality of life . These symptoms typically include low energy, feelings of hopelessness, poor concentration, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.   While the data on dysthymia among students are not as extensively documented as those on major depressive illness, it is far from rare. In reality, due to multiple stressors particular to their circumstance, college and university students are at a h