Whether or not cognitive impairment can be cured needs to be analysed on a case-by-case basis. If the disorder is caused by depression, anxiety, mania or other psychiatric abnormalities, it can be effectively managed with timely treatment, but some patients may experience recurrence later in life. Cognitive impairment caused by alcohol, drug and hallucinogenic substances can often be cured in the early stages with behavioural modification. In conclusion, the causes of cognitive impairment are complex and the outcome needs to be determined by the cause and severity.