Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the associations between residual symptoms of depression and specific self-reported symptoms in several cognitive domains.
Methods: The study investigated 117 patients with partially or fully remitted major depressive disorder (MDD) after treatment with antidepressant medications.
Results: Fatigue was significantly associated with inability to focus, alertness, and feeling "blue"; low interest and difficulty with concentration were associated with apathy. No associations were found between deficits in the cognitive domains considered and residual symptoms such as self-blaming, feeling worthless, feeling hopeless, having suicidal thoughts, difficulty with sleep, and lack of appetite.
Conclusion: Among MDD remitted patients endorsing residual symptoms such as fatigue and feeling "blue", deficits in a range of cognitive domains should be carefully assessed and treated.