Dysphoria

Dysphoria is a state of unease or dissatisfaction, often with mood features such as sadness, anxiety, irritability, or restlessness. In clinical use, it denotes a negative mood state rather than a specific disorder, and it can occur transiently in response to stress or as a symptom of various mental health conditions.

In the context of mood disorders, dysphoria can accompany conditions such as major depressive disorder or dysthymia, and it may appear in association with anxiety disorders or substance withdrawal. Clinicians assess how long the dysphoria lasts, how pervasive it is, and whether it causes significant impairment to determine its clinical significance and appropriate treatment.

Gender dysphoria is a distinct condition characterized by persistent incongruence between a person’s experienced or expressed gender and the gender assigned at birth, typically lasting at least six months and causing distress or impairment. It is not attributed to another medical condition or to cultural norms. Treatments may include gender-affirming care—such as social transition, hormone therapy, and surgical options—along with mental health support to address distress and improve functioning.

Dysphoria can also arise from medical illnesses, medications, or withdrawal from substances, and may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as changes in sleep or appetite. Management focuses on addressing the underlying cause, reducing distress, and supporting the individual’s autonomy and well-being.

The term derives from the Greek dys- meaning difficult or bad, and -phoria meaning bearing or carrying. In contrast to euphoria, dysphoria denotes a negative mood state.