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By Mayo Clinic staffIt's not known specifically what causes dysthymia. Researchers believe that dysthymia has similar origins as depression, including:
- Biochemical. Some evidence from imaging studies indicates that people with depression have physical changes in their brains, and this may be true of dysthymia, too. The significance of these changes is still uncertain but may eventually help pinpoint causes. The naturally occurring brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which are linked to mood, also may play a role in causing dysthymia.
- Genes. Some studies show that depression is more common in people whose biological family members also have the condition, and this also appears to be the case with dysthymia. Researchers are trying to find genes that may contribute to causing dysthymia.
- Environment. Again, as with depression, environment may contribute to dysthymia. Environmental causes are situations in your life that are difficult to cope with, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems and high stress.