{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia","path":"/library/pseudodementia","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia","title":"Pseudodementia","family":"Library detail","description":"Pseudodementia is a set of symptoms that occurs in people with certain mental health conditions like depression, but is distinct from neurocognitive dementia.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"custom-shared-preview","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/pseudodementia","wordpressId":"325","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen#person","name":"Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri#person","name":"Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2023-01-13T07:31:51Z","dateModified":"2025-12-28T13:12:10Z","lastReviewed":"2023-01-13"},"content":{"html":"<nav class=\"breadcrumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><ol><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/\">Home</a></li><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library\">Library</a></li><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/medical-conditions\">Medical Conditions</a></li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">Pseudodementia</span></li></ol></nav><div class=\"article-page article-standard\" data-library-standard><div class=\"article-main-grid\"><header class=\"article-heading\"><h1>Pseudodementia</h1><p class=\"article-inline-credits\"><span>Written by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/97.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\">Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.</a></span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9737.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\">Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.</a></span></p><div class=\"article-dates\"><span>Published on <time datetime=\"2023-01-13T07:31:51Z\">January 13, 2023</time></span><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> · </span><span>Updated on <time datetime=\"2025-12-28T13:12:10Z\">December 28, 2025</time></span></div></header><div class=\"article-jumpbar\"></div><div class=\"article-layout\"><div class=\"article-reading\"><article class=\"prose\" id=\"article-content\"><div class=\"article-intro\" data-source-field=\"hero\"><p>Pseudodementia is a term that refers to psychiatric symptoms that mirror the cognitive decline seen in cases of dementia. The difference between pseudodementia versus dementia is that symptoms of pseudodementia are the result of a mental health condition, such as depression, rather than resulting from an organic neurocognitive disorder <sup><a href=\"#pseudo-dementia-neuropsychological-review\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 1\">[1]</a></sup>.</p></div><figure class=\"article-feature\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-11826.webp\" alt=\"An older adult stretches while seated beside a bright window.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\"></figure><section class=\"article-takeaways\" aria-labelledby=\"key-takeaways\"><h2 id=\"key-takeaways\">Key takeaways</h2><ul><li>Pseudodementia is an informal term for cognitive difficulties associated with psychiatric conditions, most often depression.</li><li>Problems with memory and concentration can resemble dementia, making careful assessment important.</li><li>Treating the underlying mental health condition can improve cognition, although improvement is not guaranteed.</li></ul></section><span id=\"what-is-pseudodementia-pseudodementia-is-a-condition-that-develops-alongside-psychiatric-conditions-like-depression-it-does-not-represent\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-is-pseudodementia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-is-pseudodementia\">What is pseudodementia?</h2><p>\nPseudodementia is a condition that develops alongside psychiatric conditions like depression. It does not represent <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/dementia\" class=\"article-inline-link\">neurocognitive dementia</a>, such as in cases of <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/causes-of-alzheimers-disease\" class=\"article-inline-link\">Alzheimer’s</a>. Rather, it is secondary to other psychiatric conditions.\nThe reason the condition is called pseudodementia is that it involves symptoms that look similar to dementia, but it is a separate condition from organic dementia. Much like dementia, pseudodementia includes symptoms of cognitive decline, such as difficulty with memory or executive functioning.\n</p><span id=\"what-causes-it-pseudodementia-is-often-caused-by-depression-and-in-some-cases-the-condition-is-called-depressive-cognitive-disorder-according-to-researchers-long-term-inflammation-from-depression-can-lead-to-deficits-in-cognitive-functioning\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-causes-it\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-causes-it\">What causes it?</h2><p>\nPseudodementia is often caused by depression, and in some cases, the condition is called depressive cognitive disorder. According to researchers, long-term inflammation from depression can lead to deficits in cognitive functioning <sup><a href=\"#depressive-cognitive-disorders\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>.\n</p><p>Other factors that contribute to pseudodementia include the effects of depression on specific brain regions involved in learning and memory. Impairment in these brain regions can lead to cognitive deficits that appear similar to symptoms of dementia <sup><a href=\"#depressive-cognitive-disorders\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>.</p><p>\nFinally, psychological and environmental factors, such as abuse, loss of a job, lack of social support, and other stressors can take a negative toll on physiological functioning and lead to cognitive decline. Some people may also have genetic risk factors for pseudodementia <sup><a href=\"#depressive-cognitive-disorders\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>.\n</p><span id=\"how-is-it-diagnosed-pseudodementia-is-not-an-official-diagnosis-in-the\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"how-is-it-diagnosed\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"how-is-it-diagnosed\">How is it diagnosed?</h2><p>\nPseudodementia is not an official diagnosis in the <em><em>Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders</em></em> (DSM-5). Instead, it is an unofficial term used to refer to cognitive impairment that occurs with psychiatric disorders, typically depression. There are no official diagnostic criteria for the condition, but a doctor or clinician may use the term pseudodementia to refer to cognitive impairment that occurs with depression <sup><a href=\"#depressive-cognitive-disorders\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>.\n</p><p>A physician or mental health professional diagnosing pseudodementia will take a full history, which involves asking questions about a patient’s medical history, mental health history, and history of symptoms. The clinician making a diagnosis will ask about the onset and duration of symptoms, and they may complete assessments of memory and learning, as well as laboratory testing and brain scans, to rule out neurodegenerative causes of cognitive decline.</p><p>To determine if a person has major depressive disorder, a clinician will utilize diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5. Major depression is diagnosed when a person has a depressed mood or a loss of interest in activities, accompanied by at least four other depression symptoms, such as low energy, sleep changes, feelings of worthlessness, and suicidal ideation <sup><a href=\"#dsm-5-changes-implications-child-serious-emotional-disturbance\" aria-label=\"Reference 3\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[3]</a></sup>.</p><p>\nA person may be said to have pseudodementia if they have depressive symptoms, accompanied by signs of cognitive impairment, which can include difficulty with concentration, memory, and information processing <sup><a href=\"#pseudo-dementia-neuropsychological-review\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 1\">[1]</a></sup>.\n</p><span id=\"what-are-the-symptoms-of-pseudodementia-since-pseudodementia-is-most-often-associated-with-cognitive-impairments-that-occur-alongside-depression-the-signs-of-pseudodementia-include-depression-symptoms-accompanied-by-evidence-of-cognitive-deficits-some-common-symptoms-of-depression-that-occur-in-pseudodementia-include\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-are-the-symptoms-of-pseudodementia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-are-the-symptoms-of-pseudodementia\">What are the symptoms of pseudodementia?</h2><p>\nSince pseudodementia is most often associated with cognitive impairments that occur alongside depression, the signs of pseudodementia include depression symptoms accompanied by evidence of cognitive deficits.\nSome common symptoms of depression that occur in pseudodementia include <sup><a href=\"#dsm-5-changes-implications-child-serious-emotional-disturbance\" aria-label=\"Reference 3\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[3]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n    <li>Sad or depressed mood</li>\n    <li>Lack of interest in usual activities or hobbies</li>\n    <li>Difficulty with concentration or decision-making</li>\n    <li>Change in weight (either weight loss or weight gain) without attempting to change weight</li>\n    <li>Change in sleep habits, which can involve sleeping either too much or too little</li>\n    <li>Feeling an inappropriate amount of guilt, or struggling with feelings of worthlessness</li>\n    <li>Changes in motor activity, which can manifest in the form of either restlessness or noticeably slowed movements</li>\n    <li>Feeling extremely fatigued and/or having a hard time completing daily activities due to low energy and lack of productivity</li>\n    <li>Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts</li>\n</ul><p>\nIn addition to the depression symptoms above, someone with pseudodementia will show signs of cognitive impairment, which can include <sup><a href=\"#pseudo-dementia-neuropsychological-review\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 1\">[1]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n    <li>Difficulty with speech</li>\n    <li>Impairments in learning</li>\n    <li>Memory loss</li>\n    <li>Having a hard time paying attention or shifting attention between tasks</li>\n    <li>Problems with planning and organizing</li>\n    <li>Trouble regulating emotions</li>\n</ul><span id=\"pseudodementia-vs-dementia-while-pseudodementia-that-occurs-with-depression-can-look-similar-to-dementia-the-two-are-distinct-conditions-firstly-dementia-is-a\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"pseudodementia-vs-dementia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"pseudodementia-vs-dementia\">Pseudodementia vs Dementia</h2><p>\nWhile pseudodementia that occurs with depression can look similar to dementia, the two are distinct conditions. Firstly, dementia is a <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/cognitive-disorders\" class=\"article-inline-link\">neurocognitive condition</a> associated with pathology and abnormalities within the brain. In organic dementia, these abnormalities are not reversible. On the other hand, cognitive decline in pseudodementia is often reversible with successful treatment.\n</p><p>That being said, there is some evidence that pseudodementia can increase the risk that a person will develop irreversible dementia in the future. Early treatment and intervention can reverse cognitive decline in depression and lower the risk of future neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia <sup><a href=\"#longitudinal-outcomes-patients-pseudodementia-systematic-review\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 4\">[4]</a></sup>.</p><p>\nFinally, cognitive impairment in dementia is often more severe than what is seen with pseudodementia. Patients who have cognitive impairments alongside depression may have only mild difficulties with memory and concentration, whereas these impairments are more severe in dementia and can interfere with daily functioning. In fact, a recent study found that patients with dementia performed worse on all cognitive tests when compared to patients with pseudodementia from depression <sup><a href=\"#distinguishing-depressive-pseudodementia-alzheimer-disease-comparative-study-hippocampal\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 5\">[5]</a></sup>.\n</p><span id=\"what-treatment-options-are-available-since-pseudodementia-involves-cognitive-decline-that-occurs-secondary-to-symptoms-of-depression-treating-the-depression-often-results-in-an-improvement-in-cognitive-functioning-one-study-with-284-patients-found-that-over-the-long-term-53-of-patients-no-longer-showed-symptoms-of-dementia-or-cognitive-impairment\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-treatment-options-are-available\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-treatment-options-are-available\">What treatment options are available?</h2><p>\nSince pseudodementia involves cognitive decline that occurs secondary to symptoms of depression, treating the depression often results in an improvement in cognitive functioning. One study with 284 patients found that over the long-term, 53% of patients no longer showed symptoms of dementia or cognitive impairment <sup><a href=\"#longitudinal-outcomes-patients-pseudodementia-systematic-review\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\" aria-label=\"Reference 4\">[4]</a></sup>.\nCommon treatment options that can reverse cognitive dysfunction in pseudodementia include <sup><a href=\"#recognition-treatment-cognitive-dysfunction-major-depressive-disorder\" aria-label=\"Reference 6\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[6]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n    <li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/therapy\" class=\"article-inline-link\"><strong>Therapy</strong></a>: Specific therapeutic modalities, including cognitive remediation therapy and <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy\" class=\"article-inline-link\">cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)</a> can improve cognitive functioning inpseudodementia patients. In fact, studies have shown that therapy can actually produce changes in brain functioning and connectivity in patients with depression, therapy reversing cognitive impairments. Therapies used in the treatment of pseudodementia can help patients to change distorted thinking patterns and learn new skills.</li>\n    <li><strong><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/medications\" class=\"article-inline-link\">Medication</a>: </strong>Prescription drugs used in the treatment of depression have been found to improve cognitive functioning, which suggests these medications can be beneficial for treating pseudodementia. Two types of antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have been found to be particularly effective for alleviating cognitive impairment in depression. Specific medications within these classes include <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/sertraline-uses-dosage-side-effects\" class=\"article-inline-link\">sertraline</a> and <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/duloxetine-uses-dosage-side-effects\" class=\"article-inline-link\">duloxetine</a>, and studies suggest that both are effective for treating cognitive impairment. Another type of <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/antidepressants\" class=\"article-inline-link\">antidepressant drug</a>, called vortioxetine, has been proven effective for treating cognitive dysfunction.</li>\n    <li><strong>Brain Stimulation: </strong>Various brain stimulation methods are used in the treatment of depression, and they may be beneficial for treating pseudodementia. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one method of brain stimulation, but its use is controversial, because it can cause short-term cognitive impairment after treatment. After the cognitive side effects of ECT pass, it is associated with small to medium improvements in memory, information processing, and executive functions. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a less invasive alternative to ECT, and this brain stimulation method has been found to be beneficial for reducing cognitive impairment in depression.</li>\n</ul><p>\nPseudodementia is a psychiatric condition that mirrors the symptoms of organic dementia, but it differs from the latter, because it is not a legitimate neurocognitive disorder. It is important to remember that pseudodementia is a descriptive term that refers to cognitive decline that occurs with depression or another psychiatric condition, but it is not an official diagnosis.\n</p><p>Furthermore, it is worth noting that if left untreated, pseudodementia does increase the risk that a person will develop organic dementia. Treatment can reverse cognitive decline and reduce the risk of complications or worsening of pseudodementia.</p></article><div class=\"article-endmatter\"><section class=\"article-sources\" id=\"references\" data-source-references=\"\" data-reference-list=\"\" data-reference-style=\"author-date-numbered\"><h2 id=\"references-2\">References</h2><ol>\n    <li id=\"pseudo-dementia-neuropsychological-review\" data-reference-number=\"1\">Kang, H., Zhao, F., You, L., Giorgetta, C., D, V., Sarkhel, S., &amp; Prakash, R. (2014). Pseudo-dementia: A neuropsychological review. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 17(2), 146-154. doi: 10.4103/0972-2327.132613</li>\n    <li id=\"depressive-cognitive-disorders\" data-reference-number=\"2\">Sekhon, S., &amp; Marwaha, R. (2022). Depressive cognitive disorders. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved November 26, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559256/#:~:text=Depressive%20cognitive%20disorders%2C%20also%20called,less%20significance%20in%20the%20past\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Library of Medicine</a>.</li>\n    <li id=\"dsm-5-changes-implications-child-serious-emotional-disturbance\" data-reference-number=\"3\">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016). DSM-5 changes: Implications for child serious emotional disturbance. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved November 26, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519712/table/ch3.t5/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Library of Medicine</a></li>\n    <li id=\"longitudinal-outcomes-patients-pseudodementia-systematic-review\" data-reference-number=\"4\">Connors, M.H., Quinto, L., &amp; Brodaty, H. (2019). Longitudinal outcomes of patients with pseudodementia: A systematic review. Psychological Medicine,49(5), 727-737. doi:10.1017/S0033291718002829</li>\n    <li id=\"distinguishing-depressive-pseudodementia-alzheimer-disease-comparative-study-hippocampal\" data-reference-number=\"5\">Sahin, S., Onal, T.O., Cinar, N., Bozdemir, M., Cubuk, R., &amp; Karsidag, S. (2017). Distinguishing depressive pseudodementia from Alzheimer disease: A comparative study of hippocampal volumetry and cognitive tests.Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders Extra, 7(2), 230-239. doi: 10.1159/000477759</li>\n    <li id=\"recognition-treatment-cognitive-dysfunction-major-depressive-disorder\" data-reference-number=\"6\">Zuckerman, H., Pan, Z., Park, C., Brietzke, E., Musial, N., Shariq, A.S., Iacobucci, M., Yim, S.J., Lui, L.M., Rong, C., &amp; McIntyre, R.S. (2018). Recognition and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in major depressive disorder. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9(655). <a href=\"https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00655\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Recognition and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in major depressive disorder</a></li>\n</ol></section><section class=\"article-medical article-panel\"><h2 id=\"medical-content\">Medical Content</h2><p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/clinical-affairs\">The Clinical Affairs Team</a> at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/publishing/editorial-policy\">Editorial Policy</a>.</p></section><section class=\"article-about article-panel\"><h2 id=\"about-mentalhealth-com\">About MentalHealth.com</h2><p>MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.</p><div class=\"article-contributors\"><section class=\"article-bio\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/97.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Author</p><h3 id=\"jenni-jacobsen-ph-d\"><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen\">Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">Ph.D., LSW, MSW</p><p>Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. is a licensed social worker, behavioral health consultant and medical reviewer. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology.</p><dl><div><dt>Published</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2023-01-13T07:31:51Z\">January 13, 2023</time></dd></div><div><dt>Updated</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-12-28T13:12:10Z\">December 28, 2025</time></dd></div></dl></div></section><section class=\"article-bio\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9737.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Medical Reviewer</p><h3 id=\"brittany-ferri-ph-d\"><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri\">Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">OTR/L</p><p>Brittany Ferri, Ph.D., is a medical reviewer and subject matter expert in behavioral health, pediatrics, and telehealth.</p><dl><div><dt>Reviewed</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2023-01-13\">January 13, 2023</time></dd></div></dl></div></section></div></section><section class=\"article-expert article-expert-mobile\" aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" data-expert-kind=\"related\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9442.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><h2><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">Natalie Staats Reiss <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Older adults and caregivers</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">View experience</a></section><section class=\"article-topic-community article-topic-community-mobile\" aria-label=\"Related communities\"><img class=\"topic-community-banner\" src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-17014.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" loading=\"lazy\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related communities</p><h2>Medical Conditions</h2><p>Explore the connections between physical health conditions and mental well-being.</p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/community/medical-conditions\">Explore community</a></section></div></div><aside class=\"article-sidebar\" tabindex=\"0\" data-bounded-rail=\"\" aria-label=\"Article navigation and related information\"><details class=\"article-contents\" open data-section-preview=\"3\" data-expanded=\"false\" data-scrolled-past=\"false\"><summary><strong>Table of contents</strong><span aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><small data-current-section=\"\">Choose a section</small></summary><nav aria-label=\"Article contents\"><ol id=\"article-section-list\"><li><a href=\"#what-is-pseudodementia\" title=\"What is pseudodementia?\" aria-label=\"What is pseudodementia?\">What is pseudodementia?</a></li><li><a href=\"#what-causes-it\" title=\"What causes it?\" aria-label=\"What causes it?\">What causes it?</a></li><li><a href=\"#how-is-it-diagnosed\" title=\"How is it diagnosed?\" aria-label=\"How is it diagnosed?\">How is it diagnosed?</a></li><li><a href=\"#what-are-the-symptoms-of-pseudodementia\" title=\"What are the symptoms of pseudodementia?\" aria-label=\"What are the symptoms of pseudodementia?\">What are the symptoms of pseudodementia?</a></li><li><a href=\"#pseudodementia-vs-dementia\" title=\"Pseudodementia vs Dementia\" aria-label=\"Pseudodementia vs Dementia\">Pseudodementia vs Dementia</a></li><li><a href=\"#what-treatment-options-are-available\" title=\"What treatment options are available?\" aria-label=\"What treatment options are available?\">What treatment options are available?</a></li></ol><button type=\"button\" class=\"article-sections-toggle\" data-sections-toggle aria-controls=\"article-section-list\" aria-expanded=\"false\">View more</button></nav></details><section class=\"article-expert\" aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" data-expert-kind=\"related\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9442.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><h2><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">Natalie Staats Reiss <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Older adults and caregivers</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">View experience</a></section><section class=\"article-topic-community\" aria-label=\"Related communities\"><img class=\"topic-community-banner\" src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-17014.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" loading=\"lazy\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related communities</p><h2>Medical Conditions</h2><p>Explore the connections between physical health conditions and mental well-being.</p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/community/medical-conditions\">Explore community</a></section></aside></div></div></div>","text":"HomeLibraryMedical ConditionsPseudodementiaPseudodementiaWritten by Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.Medically reviewed by Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.Published on January 13, 2023 · Updated on December 28, 2025Pseudodementia is a term that refers to psychiatric symptoms that mirror the cognitive decline seen in cases of dementia. The difference between pseudodementia versus dementia is that symptoms of pseudodementia are the result of a mental health condition, such as depression, rather than resulting from an organic neurocognitive disorder [1].Key takeawaysPseudodementia is an informal term for cognitive difficulties associated with psychiatric conditions, most often depression.Problems with memory and concentration can resemble dementia, making careful assessment important.Treating the underlying mental health condition can improve cognition, although improvement is not guaranteed.What is pseudodementia? Pseudodementia is a condition that develops alongside psychiatric conditions like depression. It does not represent neurocognitive dementia, such as in cases of Alzheimer’s. Rather, it is secondary to other psychiatric conditions. The reason the condition is called pseudodementia is that it involves symptoms that look similar to dementia, but it is a separate condition from organic dementia. Much like dementia, pseudodementia includes symptoms of cognitive decline, such as difficulty with memory or executive functioning. What causes it? Pseudodementia is often caused by depression, and in some cases, the condition is called depressive cognitive disorder. According to researchers, long-term inflammation from depression can lead to deficits in cognitive functioning [2]. Other factors that contribute to pseudodementia include the effects of depression on specific brain regions involved in learning and memory. Impairment in these brain regions can lead to cognitive deficits that appear similar to symptoms of dementia [2]. Finally, psychological and environmental factors, such as abuse, loss of a job, lack of social support, and other stressors can take a negative toll on physiological functioning and lead to cognitive decline. Some people may also have genetic risk factors for pseudodementia [2]. How is it diagnosed? Pseudodementia is not an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Instead, it is an unofficial term used to refer to cognitive impairment that occurs with psychiatric disorders, typically depression. There are no official diagnostic criteria for the condition, but a doctor or clinician may use the term pseudodementia to refer to cognitive impairment that occurs with depression [2]. A physician or mental health professional diagnosing pseudodementia will take a full history, which involves asking questions about a patient’s medical history, mental health history, and history of symptoms. The clinician making a diagnosis will ask about the onset and duration of symptoms, and they may complete assessments of memory and learning, as well as laboratory testing and brain scans, to rule out neurodegenerative causes of cognitive decline.To determine if a person has major depressive disorder, a clinician will utilize diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5. Major depression is diagnosed when a person has a depressed mood or a loss of interest in activities, accompanied by at least four other depression symptoms, such as low energy, sleep changes, feelings of worthlessness, and suicidal ideation [3]. A person may be said to have pseudodementia if they have depressive symptoms, accompanied by signs of cognitive impairment, which can include difficulty with concentration, memory, and information processing [1]. What are the symptoms of pseudodementia? Since pseudodementia is most often associated with cognitive impairments that occur alongside depression, the signs of pseudodementia include depression symptoms accompanied by evidence of cognitive deficits. Some common symptoms of depression that occur in pseudodementia include [3]: Sad or depressed mood Lack of interest in usual activities or hobbies Difficulty with concentration or decision-making Change in weight (either weight loss or weight gain) without attempting to change weight Change in sleep habits, which can involve sleeping either too much or too little Feeling an inappropriate amount of guilt, or struggling with feelings of worthlessness Changes in motor activity, which can manifest in the form of either restlessness or noticeably slowed movements Feeling extremely fatigued and/or having a hard time completing daily activities due to low energy and lack of productivity Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts In addition to the depression symptoms above, someone with pseudodementia will show signs of cognitive impairment, which can include [1]: Difficulty with speech Impairments in learning Memory loss Having a hard time paying attention or shifting attention between tasks Problems with planning and organizing Trouble regulating emotions Pseudodementia vs Dementia While pseudodementia that occurs with depression can look similar to dementia, the two are distinct conditions. Firstly, dementia is a neurocognitive condition associated with pathology and abnormalities within the brain. In organic dementia, these abnormalities are not reversible. On the other hand, cognitive decline in pseudodementia is often reversible with successful treatment. That being said, there is some evidence that pseudodementia can increase the risk that a person will develop irreversible dementia in the future. Early treatment and intervention can reverse cognitive decline in depression and lower the risk of future neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia [4]. Finally, cognitive impairment in dementia is often more severe than what is seen with pseudodementia. Patients who have cognitive impairments alongside depression may have only mild difficulties with memory and concentration, whereas these impairments are more severe in dementia and can interfere with daily functioning. In fact, a recent study found that patients with dementia performed worse on all cognitive tests when compared to patients with pseudodementia from depression [5]. What treatment options are available? Since pseudodementia involves cognitive decline that occurs secondary to symptoms of depression, treating the depression often results in an improvement in cognitive functioning. One study with 284 patients found that over the long-term, 53% of patients no longer showed symptoms of dementia or cognitive impairment [4]. Common treatment options that can reverse cognitive dysfunction in pseudodementia include [6]: Therapy: Specific therapeutic modalities, including cognitive remediation therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can improve cognitive functioning inpseudodementia patients. In fact, studies have shown that therapy can actually produce changes in brain functioning and connectivity in patients with depression, therapy reversing cognitive impairments. Therapies used in the treatment of pseudodementia can help patients to change distorted thinking patterns and learn new skills. Medication: Prescription drugs used in the treatment of depression have been found to improve cognitive functioning, which suggests these medications can be beneficial for treating pseudodementia. Two types of antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have been found to be particularly effective for alleviating cognitive impairment in depression. Specific medications within these classes include sertraline and duloxetine, and studies suggest that both are effective for treating cognitive impairment. Another type of antidepressant drug, called vortioxetine, has been proven effective for treating cognitive dysfunction. Brain Stimulation: Various brain stimulation methods are used in the treatment of depression, and they may be beneficial for treating pseudodementia. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one method of brain stimulation, but its use is controversial, because it can cause short-term cognitive impairment after treatment. After the cognitive side effects of ECT pass, it is associated with small to medium improvements in memory, information processing, and executive functions. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a less invasive alternative to ECT, and this brain stimulation method has been found to be beneficial for reducing cognitive impairment in depression. Pseudodementia is a psychiatric condition that mirrors the symptoms of organic dementia, but it differs from the latter, because it is not a legitimate neurocognitive disorder. It is important to remember that pseudodementia is a descriptive term that refers to cognitive decline that occurs with depression or another psychiatric condition, but it is not an official diagnosis. Furthermore, it is worth noting that if left untreated, pseudodementia does increase the risk that a person will develop organic dementia. Treatment can reverse cognitive decline and reduce the risk of complications or worsening of pseudodementia.References Kang, H., Zhao, F., You, L., Giorgetta, C., D, V., Sarkhel, S., & Prakash, R. (2014). Pseudo-dementia: A neuropsychological review. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 17(2), 146-154. doi: 10.4103/0972-2327.132613 Sekhon, S., & Marwaha, R. (2022). Depressive cognitive disorders. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved November 26, 2022, from National Library of Medicine. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016). DSM-5 changes: Implications for child serious emotional disturbance. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved November 26, 2022, from National Library of Medicine Connors, M.H., Quinto, L., & Brodaty, H. (2019). Longitudinal outcomes of patients with pseudodementia: A systematic review. Psychological Medicine,49(5), 727-737. doi:10.1017/S0033291718002829 Sahin, S., Onal, T.O., Cinar, N., Bozdemir, M., Cubuk, R., & Karsidag, S. (2017). Distinguishing depressive pseudodementia from Alzheimer disease: A comparative study of hippocampal volumetry and cognitive tests.Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders Extra, 7(2), 230-239. doi: 10.1159/000477759 Zuckerman, H., Pan, Z., Park, C., Brietzke, E., Musial, N., Shariq, A.S., Iacobucci, M., Yim, S.J., Lui, L.M., Rong, C., & McIntyre, R.S. (2018). Recognition and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in major depressive disorder. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9(655). Recognition and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in major depressive disorder Medical ContentThe Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.About MentalHealth.comMentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.AuthorJenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.Ph.D., LSW, MSWJenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. is a licensed social worker, behavioral health consultant and medical reviewer. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology.PublishedJanuary 13, 2023UpdatedDecember 28, 2025Medical ReviewerBrittany Ferri, Ph.D.OTR/LBrittany Ferri, Ph.D., is a medical reviewer and subject matter expert in behavioral health, pediatrics, and telehealth.ReviewedJanuary 13, 2023Subject matter expertNatalie Staats Reiss Ph.D.Older adults and caregiversView experienceRelated communitiesMedical ConditionsExplore the connections between physical health conditions and mental well-being.Explore communityTable of contentsChoose a sectionWhat is pseudodementia?What causes it?How is it diagnosed?What are the symptoms of pseudodementia?Pseudodementia vs DementiaWhat treatment options are available?View moreSubject matter expertNatalie Staats Reiss Ph.D.Older adults and caregiversView experienceRelated communitiesMedical ConditionsExplore the connections between physical health conditions and mental well-being.Explore community","wordCount":1677},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#website","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Medical Conditions","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/medical-conditions"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Pseudodementia","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia#primaryimage","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-11826.webp","contentUrl":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-11826.webp","width":1200,"height":800,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"An older adult stretches while seated beside a bright window."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen#person","name":"Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/jenni-jacobsen","jobTitle":"Ph.D., LSW, MSW","image":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/97.jpg"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri#person","name":"Brittany Ferri, Ph.D.","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/brittany-ferri","jobTitle":"OTR/L","image":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9737.jpeg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanyferri/"]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia#article","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia","headline":"Pseudodementia","description":"Pseudodementia is a set of symptoms that occurs in people with certain mental health conditions like depression, but is distinct from neurocognitive dementia.","wordCount":1270,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization"},"articleSection":"Library","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Kang, H., Zhao, F., You, L., Giorgetta, C., D, V., Sarkhel, S., & Prakash, R. 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underlying mental health condition can improve cognition, although improvement is not guaranteed."],"introduction":{"html":"Pseudodementia is a term that refers to psychiatric symptoms that mirror the cognitive decline seen in cases of dementia. The difference between pseudodementia versus dementia is that symptoms of pseudodementia are the result of a mental health condition, such as depression, rather than resulting from an organic neurocognitive disorder <sup><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/pseudodementia#resource-1\">[1]</a></sup>.","text":"Pseudodementia is a term that refers to psychiatric symptoms that mirror the cognitive decline seen in cases of dementia. 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