Predictors of restoring social functioning in affective disorders

Abstract

This article provides a review of studies on the social functioning of patients with affective disorders in the periods of exacerbation and remission. Particular attention is paid to identify predictors of social functioning recovery after suffering an episode of illness. The following main factors affecting the functional recovery: the absence of residual depressive symptoms (primarily hypothimia), restoration of neurocognitive functions, personality characteristics of the patients, the social environment and social support, therapy and rehabilitation activities.