Working memory function in patients with affective disorders

Working memory is the foundation of a well-functioning brain system, ensuring proper execution of complex cognitive problems. According to numerous researchers, emotions, in particular negative ones, impact the quality of working memory function. Patients with depressive disorders tend to display impaired working memory, experiencing difficulties with controlling or removing negative emotions and retaining positive information. The alterations in the capacity of working memory present in patients struggling with affective disorders have their neurobiological correlates. The literature regarding studies which have utilised neuroimaging techniques does not hold a congruent view as to the presence of a common pattern of brain dysfunction in patients with affective disorders. Mood disorders are most typically associated with abnormalities in the activity of both cortical and subcortical regions of the brain while solving tasks that involve working memory. Working memory dysfunctions play a major role in producing and fuelling the symptoms of affective disorders. Moreover, neuropsychological deficits present in patients diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder tend to be perceived as very characteristic for their functioning. This paper presents the most relevant current information concerning the issue in question. Further research into the area is much called for, with additional attention paid to the effect of the course and the clinical picture of the disease on the functioning of working memory, as it could potentially improve the quality of the diagnostic and therapeutic process for the patients.