Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffThere's no sure way to prevent dysthymia. Because dysthymia often starts in childhood, identifying children at risk of the condition may be of some benefit, though, by encouraging early treatment. Also, taking steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help ward off dysthymia symptoms. Friendship and social support, especially in times of crisis, can help you weather rough spells. Also, treatment at the earliest sign of a problem can help prevent dysthymia from worsening. Long-term maintenance treatment also may help prevent a relapse of dysthymia symptoms.
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