Longitudinal studies of Major Depression Disorder and cognitive functioning and emotional information processing: predictors for relapse?

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The main focus in the present project is to investigate factors that can contribute to the high relapse risk in Major Depression Disorder (MDD) in general and the contribution of cognitive functioning and emotional information processing in particular. Th e present project will study the relationship between these factors longitudinally in first time depression. We expect to gain knowledge about MDD, which in turn will be valuable information for this patient group, the primary health care sectors, and th e society in general. This knowledge will be of great importance when planning preventive techniques/ in the treatment of MDD. All MDD patients will be tested with a neuropsychological test battery, including standardised tests assessing memory, attentio n, language and executive functions. In addition an experimental paradigm will be included to investigate automatic and effortful information processing which also include measures of emotional information processing. The present project will investigate patients experiencing their very first episode of MDD. This patient group will be retested after 6 months and after one year. The questions asked in this project will have important clinical implications and needs to be considered in the treatment and reh abilitation of MDD patients. The project has in its structure, a unique opportunity to clarify different aspects regarding the factors contributing to the high relapse risk in MDD.