The relationship between memory function and depression was examined in
23 patients who met DSM-III criteria for major depression. All patients
were unmedicated at the time of examination, which included the Wechsler
Memory Scale, Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory- Depression Scale
(MMPI-D), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Consistent with
previous studies, there was no relationship between the MMPI-D and any of
the Wechsler Memory Scale measures. In contrast, poor memory was related to
elevated scores on the HDRS. These data indicate that depression does
influence memory performance. The most important implication of this study
is the need for the use of appropriate measurement instruments in studies
of neuropsychological correlates of neuropsychiatric disorders.Abstract Teaser