Deficit in Theory of Mind is a Risk Factor for Relapse of Major Depression

Abstract

Background:

Recently, we reported that patients with depression have theory of mind (ToM) deficit during remission from acute episodes. ToM deficit means difficulty in social adjustment and thus may indicate a poorer prognosis.

Methods:

We evaluated ToM ability of 50 patients during remission from major depressive episodes. The patients were followed for 1 year and their outcome observed.

Results:

After 1 year, patients who had ToM deficit in a second order false question relapsed significantly more frequently as compared with patients who did not have a deficit (Fisher"s exact test pb0.0001; relative risk (RR)=8.105; CI 2.020, 32.524).

Significant differences were shown in scores of the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (p< 0.0001) between the two groups.

Conclusions:

Patients with ToM deficit in second order false belief during remission may be a high risk group for recurrence and lower social function 1 year after recovering from a major depressive episode.