Cognition in Affective Disorders

Abstract

Characterized by alterations in mood, both major depression and bipolar disorder are also associated with deficits in neuropsychological function across several cognitive domains, including impaired attention, executive function, language, and processing speed. The majority of findings indicate that these deficits are likely present early in the course of affective disorders and can even persist after the resolution of the mood disturbance. The cognitive deficits in major depression and bipolar disorder appear to contribute to the disability associated with major depression and bipolar disorder. While the medications used to treat affective disorders might contribute to some of the cognitive impairments found in affective disorders, they do not appear to account for all of the cognitive impairments. The causes of the cognitive deficits associated with major depression remain unknown, although several possible causes require consideration. Abnormal function of the neural circuits associated with major depression and bipolar disorder might contribute not only to abnormal mood regulation but also to deficits in cognition. The association between affective disorders and cognitive function and mechanisms of this association require additional study.