The effects of depression on the learning process

Abstract

Depression is a prevalent psychiatric condition that affects various aspects of individuals' lives, including learning. This disorder compromises cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and motivation, directly impacting academic performance. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of depression on the learning process, focusing primarily on its impact on memory, concentration, and motivation in students. This is a qualitative narrative review, analyzing studies published between 2020 and 2025. The search was conducted in academic databases such as SciELO, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Lilacs, selecting articles in Portuguese. The findings indicate that depression severely impairs learning, particularly affecting memory and motivation in students. Additionally, the pandemic exacerbated these effects, with many students experiencing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and demotivation, leading to compromised academic performance. Therefore, depression has a significant impact on the learning process, especially in higher education. The lack of effective public policies and psychological support in educational institutions worsens these issues, highlighting the urgent need for interventions that promote both emotional and academic well-being among students.