Dysthymic Disorder is characterized by a depressed mood experienced most of the time for a long period of time (often at least two years), along with some of the following symptoms: insomnia/excessive sleep, low energy or fatigue, low self-esteem, poor appetite/overeating, poor concentration or indecisiveness, and feelings of hopelessness.
Dysthymia symptoms are typically less severe than symptoms of major depression. People suffering from Dysthymic Disorder often find that its symptoms do not disable, but keep one from functioning normally or from feeling good. Many people with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their lives.