Mental disorders in neurological patients

Thirty-five patients, 24 men (mean age 50,5 +/- 7,1 years) and 11 women (mean age 54,9 +/- 6,4 years) with chronic vascular insufficiency have been studied using a complex approach which included clinical, psychometric and experimental psychological methods. 25,7% of patients had no symptoms of mental disturbances. Depressive and anxiety disorders were most frequent among mental disorders. The data obtained suggest that pronounced alexithymia and higher intensity of psychological defense may play a role in their genesis.