Bipolar Disorder & Cognitive Theory

The evidence supporting a connection between bipolar disorder and cognitive impairment is growing. Some bipolar patients report that cognitive difficulties affect their daily life more than the mood swings. This suggests treatment of the cognitive impairment may be useful when done in conjunction with treatment for bipolar disorder.

Theories/Speculation

• David C. Glahn, Ph.D., and Dawn I. Velligan, Ph.D. said in an article published in the May 1, 2007 issue of Psychiatric Times, "There is growing evidence that individuals with bipolar affective disorder have cognitive impairments, even during periods of symptom remission."

Significance

• In a controlled study conducted by professor Jan Scott in 2000, results indicated cognitive vulnerability is present in patients with bipolar disorder.

Considerations

• Cognitive impairment was found to be present in fewer bipolar patients than in those with schizophrenia. The severity fluctuates concomitantly with the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Inconclusive

• A study that indicated bipolar patients have difficulty performing tasks requiring speed is reported in "Cognitive Dysfunctions in Bipolar Disorder: Evidence of Neuropsychological Disturbances" by Anabel Martínez-Arána, Eduard Vietaa, Francesc Coloma, María Reinaresa, Antoni Benabarrea, Cristòbal Gastóa and Manel Salamerob.

Expert Insight

• Dennis P. Saccuzzo, Ph.D., Professor and David L. Braff, M.D., Associate Professor report the results of a study on visual perception deficiency. The 1986 article indicates that a bipolar disorder and cognitive disorder may occur simultaneously and usually independent of each other.