Cognitive Dysfunction in Major Depressive Disorder: Clinical Implications and Interventions |Chapter 6 | Medical Science: Updates and Prospects Vol. 5

 

Cognitive dysfunction is increasingly recognised as a core and disabling component of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), extending beyond affective symptoms to significantly impairing everyday functioning. While traditional research has largely focused on mood disturbances, growing evidence indicates that deficits in attention, memory, and executive functioning are highly prevalent and often persist even during symptomatic remission. Such impairments contribute substantially to poor psychosocial and occupational outcomes and represent an important determinant of long-term prognosis.

 

This chapter provides a comprehensive narrative review of the patterns and mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction in MDD, integrating findings from recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence from the literature indicates that clinically significant cognitive impairment affects approximately half of individuals with MDD, with residual deficits frequently observed following remission of mood symptoms. Among cognitive domains, impairments in executive function, processing speed, and memory demonstrate moderate effect sizes and show strong associations with functional disability and reduced quality of life.

 

The chapter further examines underlying neurobiological and neurophysiological mechanisms, including dysregulation within prefrontal–limbic circuits, hippocampal alterations, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis hyperactivity, and abnormalities in event-related potentials such as prolonged P300 latency. Clinical implications are discussed, emphasising the importance of routine cognitive assessment and the integration of targeted cognitive interventions alongside standard treatment approaches. Finally, future directions for research and clinical practice are outlined, highlighting the need for individualised cognitive remediation strategies to optimise functional recovery in individuals with MDD.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Sharma S
Department of Physiology, RUHS College of Medical Sciences, Partap Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302033, India.

 

Kacker S
Department of Physiology, RUHS College of Medical Sciences, Partap Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302033, India.

 

Saboo N
Department of Physiology, RUHS College of Medical Sciences, Partap Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302033, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/msup/v5/6939