Cognitive Function, Affective Symptoms, and Everyday Activities in Patients Previously Diagnosed With Exhaustion Disorder

Abstract

Exhaustion disorder (ED; swe: utmattningssyndrom) is an increasing diagnose in Sweden, significantly impacting patients' daily lives. This study aimed to explore the cognitive function of individuals diagnosed with ED, 7-12 years post-diagnosis, examining the relationship between their responses on the Sahlgrenska Academy Self-Reported Cognitive Impairments Questionnaire (SASCI-Q) and neuropsychological test results. Additionally, we investigated the relationship between SASCI-Q responses and symptoms of anxiety and depression measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD). Furthermore, we assessed the relationship between the cognitive function and daily activities domains in SASCI-Q. Among 49 participants (mean age: 50.3 years), no significant correlation emerged between self-reported cognitive function and neuropsychological test performance, highlighting a discrepancy. Notably, SASCI-Q responses significantly correlated with symptoms of anxiety and depression, with anxiety playing a more prominent role. Furtherly, no significant correlation was found between SASCI-Q responses of cognitive function and everyday activities. These findings underscore the need for further research to enhance understanding of the relationship between self-reported cognition and other symptoms as well as level of functioning, in the long-term course of ED.