Subjective ratings of neurocognitive functioning in depressed young people undergoing treatment: utility of a brief screening tool

To determine how young people with depression rate their neurocognitive functioning during treatment, and whether these ratings are affected by depression severity, age, suicidal ideation and antidepressant status.

Fifty young people (12-25 years) engaged in psychological therapy completed the Neuropsychological Symptoms Self-Report rating their neurocognitive functioning in a range of domains.

In two domains, working memory/multitasking and motivation, more than 40% of the sample rated their functioning as improved, since commencing treatment. Ratings of neurocognitive functioning were affected by depression severity and suicidal ideation, particularly in the areas of wakefulness, attention and concentration, working memory/multitasking, and motivation. However, there were few differences related to age or antidepressant status.

The Neuropsychological Symptoms Self-Report - a rapid measure of subjective neurocognitive functioning - can provide a snapshot of subjective changes in neurocognitive functioning during treatment for depression. This information may guide treatment approaches.