What is Low-grade Depression?

These last couple of months, the pressures of everyday life have increased dramatically. From the pandemic to politics, the constant barrage of ever-changing and uncertain news coverage makes it easy to become overwhelmed, concerned, and disheartened by the state of the world. If you’ve noticed sustained, yet subtle, feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or other depression symptoms, it’s possible that you’re experiencing low-grade depression. 

What is low-grade depression?

Low-grade depression, sometimes referred to as persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia , occurs when an individual experiences long-lasting and low-level feelings of unhappiness and depression. People with low-grade depression may not even be aware they are feeling unwell since their symptoms might be chronic and unknowingly normalized . Often, those with low-grade depression are high-functioning , but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t suffering from symptoms of depression.

What’s the difference between low-grade depression and major depressive disorder?

Don’t let the words “low-grade” and “major” mislead you: even though it may be more difficult to detect, low-grade depression can be just as disruptive to one’s overall happiness and wellbeing as major depressive disorder. Low grade depression has many similar symptoms to clinical depression and can include:

• loss of appetite
• insomnia
• low self-esteem
• negative thoughts
• trouble focusing
• feelings of guilt or shame

The significant difference between low-grade depression and MDD, however, surrounds the length and intensity of symptoms. As the name suggests, low-grade depression may not include all the criteria of major depressive disorder (MDD) but that does not negate its impact on one’s quality of life. Though episodes of low-grade depression and MDD can both last for long stretches of time, a PDD diagnosis is made when above mentioned symptoms last for two years or more (1 year for children or adolescents).

Should I get help for low-grade depression?

Yes. Because low-grade depression might just feel like a natural reaction to what’s happening in the world right now, those experiencing it might not know if they should get help for their depressive symptoms. You might think that since the symptoms aren’t severe, it isn’t worth seeking professional assistance. However, as with any other kind of depression and mental health condition, if you are noticing persistent symptoms it’s important to speak with a mental health professional. A mental health practitioner can provide resources and help you evaluate any treatments that might be helpful. In reaching out for professional advice, you can take control of your mental health, and begin finding solutions for improving your depression.