Individuals suffering from Persistent Depressive Disorder evidence a chronically depressed mood that occurs for most of the day, more days than not, for at least a two year period. The impairment and depressed mood are usually not as severe as in Major Depression. Two of the following symptoms must also be present:
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Low energy or fatigue
• Low self-esteem
• Poor concentration
• Feelings of hopelessness
American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, text Revision. Washington, DC American Psychiatric Association, 2000.