Cognitive performance and subjective complaints before and after remission of major depression

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Abstract
Introduction. Patients with major depression report on severe cognitive deficits but objective neuropsychological test results indicate rather mild problems. In the present study we aimed at investigating neuropsychological performance, subjective complaints, and observer ratings of cognitive abilities in everyday life. Methods. Fifteen patients with major depression were studied in the acute state of illness and after remission. Fifteen healthy control subjects were investigated, too. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery, questionnaires for self and observer rating of cognitive abilities, and clinical questionnaires were administered. Results. As expected problems reported in self and observer ratings exceeded neuropsychological deficits in tests. Neuropsychological test results tended to be improved at the second test session, with patients showing a more pronounced improvement in flexibility. Conclusions. The data support the hypothesis that cognitive problems in everyday life indeed exceed results in standardised tests. However, it seems also likely from our data that results are additionally influenced by patients negative self perception.