Dysthymic disorder (or Dysthymia) is defined by the DSM as a person having a depressed mood (can be irritable in children) for most of the day, for more days than not by their own account or observed by others, for at least 2 years (1 year for children) and may also have the following symptoms (at least 2 or more): * poor appetite or overeating * insomnia or hypersomnia * low energy or fatigue * low self-esteem * poor concentration or difficulty making decisions * feelings of hopelessness The condition is also not caused or explained by the following: