What is a common symptom of Dysthymic Disorder associated with mood?

Dysthymic Disorder, now recognized in the DSM-5 as Persistent Depressive Disorder, is characterized by a chronic state of depression that lasts for at least two years in adults (one year in children and adolescents). A common symptom of this disorder is low energy, which reflects the pervasive nature of the depressed mood associated with it. Individuals often describe a sense of fatigue, lethargy, and reduced motivation in their daily activities.

This symptom can often lead to significant impairment in functioning, as individuals struggle to perform even routine tasks due to their lack of energy. Unlike intense euphoria, excessive risk-taking, or increased sociability—symptoms more characteristic of hypomania or mania in bipolar disorders—the experience of low energy aligns closely with the persistent, moderate depressive symptoms seen in Dysthymic Disorder. Recognizing low energy as a key feature helps distinguish it from other mood disorders that may present differently.