[The effects of a computer assisted cognitive training on neuropsychological parameters, mood and dysfunctional...

In this pilot study a computer-assisted cognitive training programme (CAT) was tested and evaluated in patients with depressive syndromes for its effects on neuropsychological parameters, modd and dysfunctional cognitions.

A total of 48 patients were randomized either to the treatment or the control group. The former underwent 20 sessions, 30-45 minutes each, of computer-assisted cognitive training, twice a week. At the beginning and at the end of the training (ten weeks later), both groups were given neuropsychological tests (memory, attention, concentration and information processing speed) and also questionnaires to assess depressive mood, thoughts, negative self communication and locus of control.

At the start of the study, both the groups information processing speed. All these were absent in the control group. Also the depressive mood, as well as negative self-communication markedly improved in the training group. As expected, these results were not observed in the control group.

According to these results in depressed patients a computer-assisted cognitive training programme might have a positive influence not only on their neuropsychological functions but also on their dysfunctional beliefs. Thus CAT should be part of the treatment of depressive patients.