Dysphoria

Dysphoria is a profound state of unease or dissatisfaction. In a psychiatric context, dysphoria may accompany depression, anxiety, or agitation. It can also refer to a state of not being comfortable in one's current body, particularly in cases of gender dysphoria. Common reactions to dysphoria include emotional distress; in some cases, even physical distress. The opposite state of mind is known as euphoria.

Definition and types

Dysphoria is a psychological state that is often caused by or accompanies a mental health condition. Stress, grief, relationship difficulties, and other environmental problems can also cause dysphoria. Most often, dysphoria is a mood, which means someone can have fleeting moments of dysphoria.

Dysphoria is also a key aspect of certain mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It can also be a symptom of neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, and eating disorders.

Gender dysphoria

Gender dysphoria is a condition where a person experiences discomfort or distress because there's a mismatch between their biological sex and gender identity. It's sometimes known as gender identity disorder (GID), gender incongruence or transgenderism. This dysphoria may manifest as depression, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health issues.

Treatment

Treatment for dysphoria often involves psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressant medication, or both. With appropriate treatment, most people can get relief from dysphoria.

See also

• Mood (psychology)
• Anhedonia
• Euthymia (medicine)

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