When depressive symptoms are relatively mild and less disruptive of behavior, but more chronic, an appropriate diagnosis would be:

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Dysthymic disorder is characterized by a chronic low mood that lasts for at least two years in adults (one year in children and adolescents) and is less severe than major depressive disorder. Symptoms may be present most of the time, but individuals can still function in their daily lives. Recurrent depressive episodes (B) refer to an individual experiencing multiple episodes of major depression separated by periods of partial or full remission. Cyclothymic disorder (C) is characterized by chronic mood disturbances that alternate between hypomanic and depressive symptoms but are not severe enough to meet the criteria for bipolar disorder. Hypomania (D) refers to a less severe form of mania, and is not a diagnosis on its own, but rather a symptom of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders.

When Depressive Symptoms Are Relatively Mild and Less Disruptive of Behavior