Intelligent people are at less risk of suffering severe mental illness, according
to a new study by psychiatrists.

A high IQ can lessen the severity of disorders such as depression and schizophrenia,
say researchers from Cambridge University.

"It has been known for some time that intelligence can protect you against dementia
and the consequences of head injury," said a university spokeswoman.

"However...researchers at the University of Cambridge's Department of Psychiatry
have discovered that intelligence can also buffer the consequences of neuropsychiatry
disorders such as schizophrenia.

"They have demonstrated that the symptoms of schizophrenia are less severe and the
ability to function in daily living is better for those with a higher IQ."

She said the study found evidence that "cognitive reserve" - intelligence - made
people more resilient.

"Fortunately, cognitive reserve can be strengthened through education, neurocognitive
activation - doing crossword or Sudoku puzzles etc - or other treatment programmes,"
she added.

"It may also be possible to improve cognitive reserve through the use of cognition-
enhancing drugs."

Professor Barbara Sahakian, a member of the research team, said: "We are very excited
about these novel results. We have known for some time that it is important to 'use it
or lose it' with regard to ageing and dementia, but it now seems that this concept
applies more widely."

Press Association
Monday April 17, 2006 7:23 AM

© Copyright Press Association Ltd 2006, All Rights Reserved.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uklatest/story/0,,-5760003,00.html

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