Many people with mood disorders have cognitive problems.  Cognitive difficulties are actually one of the symptoms of depression.  However, cognitive problems resulting from depression in older people could be missed, if minor or misdiagnosed, if severe.  Memory difficulties,  attention and concentration problems are all common. A large number of people also have difficulties making decisions or may become overly indecisive.

Cognitive problems may increase feelings of inadequacy in depression sufferers.  They can create a frustrating feed-back loop in which the depressed person gets caught.  An inability to remember household tasks or details of a recent discussion with a friend can leave someone feeling as if they are unable to hold up their end.  Most depression sufferers battle low self esteem. Feeling like you are not a good friend or wife only increases stress.

People suffering from manic-depression are not immune to cognitive difficulties.  When entering a manic phase they may be particularly susceptible to the effects.  A manic person may not recognize the decreased cognitive ability and therefore increases potential for problems.

Problem solving skills and rapid decision making may also be difficult.  This may be a particular problem at work.  You may be able to ask for deadline extensions to allow you the extra time necessary to complete a project.

Studies are being conducted to determine if these difficulties effect response to treatments such as cognitive therapy.  Comparisons to antidepressants in clinical trials should provide useful data in the near future to assist those suffering from cognitive impairment due to a mood disorder.
 
Cognitive difficulties may parallel the severity of a particular episode.  However, these impairments are temporary.  They usually lift when the depression is successfully treated.

Some medications produce grogginess.  ECT sometimes has cognitive impairment.  Discuss any cognitive impairment with you doctor.  If the difficulty is caused by your treatment, your doctor may be able to help.

Cognitive problem can effect a person's ability to carry out day-to-day activities.  It is important for loved ones to recognize this as part of the suite of symptoms of the mood disorder. It is not an intentional act or a lack of effort on the depressed persons part.  Those suffering from the illness must also realize that this is a symptom and forgive themselves when they cannot remember their  best friend's phone number.