Cognitive functioning in major depression – a summary

Åsa Hammar

doi:10.3389/neuro.09.026.2009

Abstract

The aim of the present paper is to summarize the research during the past decade regarding cognitive functioning in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Cognitive impairment in the acute phase of illness has been frequently reported. The findings are shown in different cognitive domains, such as executive functions, attention, memory and psychomotor speed. Fewer reports have investigated cognitive functioning in MDD in longitudinal studies. Some longitudinal reports show that the impairment observed in the acute phase of illness may be long lasting despite symptom reduction and recovery. However, findings regarding cognitive functioning in depression are divergent. Factors that might contribute to the divergent findings, such as depression subtype, severity and comorbidity are discussed. Clinical implications and focus of future research directions is highlighted.In conclusion, depression is associated with cognitive impairment in the acute phase of illness, and some reports indicate that this impairment might be long lasting despite symptom reduction and recovery.

Highlights

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the most prevalent of all mental disorders with an estimated life prevalence as high as 13.5–21.2% (Kessler and Walters, 1998; Turner and Gil, 2002; Kessler et al, 2005)
The aim of the present paper is to summarize the research during the past decade regarding cognitive functioning in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Clinical implications and focus of future research directions is highlighted.In conclusion, depression is associated with cognitive impairment in the acute phase of illness, and some reports indicate that this impairment might be long lasting despite symptom reduction and recovery

Summary

Introduction

MDD is the most prevalent of all mental disorders with an estimated life prevalence as high as 13.5–21.2% (Kessler and Walters, 1998; Turner and Gil, 2002; Kessler et al, 2005). Regarding course of recovery it has been reported that only 20% of MDD patients recover and remain continuously well, while as many as 20% estimates to either commit suicide or always be incapacitated. MDD is associated with a high relapse risk, found to be highest during the first year after a depressive episode (Mueller et al, 1999). 50% of depressed patients experience a relapse within 2 years after their first episode, and 80% will experience more than one depressive episode during their life course (Mueller et al, 1999)

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Conclusion