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IBS dysthymia

Some people with IBS or irritable bowel syndrome may also suffer from mild depression. A persistent mild depression is known as dysthymia and the word “dysthymia” basically means “bad state of mind” or “ill humour”. The difference between dysthymia and other types of depression is that although the main symptoms are similar to those of classic depression, they are not as severe so the individual is probably able to continue with their normal routines, possibly even unaware that they have a problem at all. Dysthymia affects twice as many women as men and quite often, people suffering from dysthymia will also be suffering from another medical condition at the same time.

Symptoms of Dysthymia

The main symptom of dysthymia is a constant low mood that persists all the time, day after day. For example, it might be difficult to remember the last time you really enjoyed yourself or felt happy. You might also feel that you are not performing or functioning as well as you could either physically, or at home, work or in your relationships. Dysthymia can affect your sleep, your appetite and your motivation levels. It can make you feel fatigued and fed up and because this could have been going on for some time, you might even believe that this state of mind and way of being is actually normal. You may be diagnosed with dysthymia if your symptoms have persisted for a period of two years or more.

Why people with IBS might also suffer from depression

Although depression doesn’t cause IBS as such, it can accompany IBS. People with IBS are more susceptible to the negative effects of emotional anxiety or stress. IBS sufferers often have a much greater sensitivity to pain and whereas people with a normal gut will be unaware of what is going on during the digestive processes until they need to pass a bowel movement, those with IBS can perceive these contractions as intensely painful.

Coping with the symptoms of IBS on a daily basis can be distressing enough in itself, but when it interferes with relationships, work and social activities, it can be isolating and depressing. Low dose antidepressants have been found to be beneficial in treating some people with IBS, even when they don’t suffer from depression and the reason why this should be the case isn’t clear but it is believed to be linked to the effect on serotonin levels. The brain and the gut are indeed very much linked. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has an important function in mood as well as in the processes involved in digestion so by altering serotonin levels it is possible to alter mood and help alleviate the symptoms of IBS.

If you think you may be suffering from dysthymia or IBS or both, it is important to speak to your doctor because help is available and with proper treatment and advice you can significantly improve your quality of life. The first step is in recognising that a persistent low mood is not normal, whether you suffer from IBS or not.