Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Mental Health

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that is marked by feelings of a persistent low mood and a lack of interest in activities. Treatment typically involves antidepressant medications and therapy.

Some studies do support the use of omega-3s in people with depression. A review of 35 studies found that these fatty acids may improve depressive symptoms and people with severe symptoms may experience a greater benefit.

Three small studies found that EPA might help improve symptoms in people not having success with antidepressants.

Also, organizations like the American Psychological Association suggest that omega-3s may be useful as an addition to antidepressant therapy. In one small study, people who took both antidepressants and omega-3s experienced more of an improvement compared to those who took their medication and a placebo.

Not all of the findings have been positive, though. A large study involving 432 people found that omega-3s do not appear to reduce symptoms in people who have depression. Researchers also looked at people with both depression and heart disease. Those that took the antidepressant sertraline and omega-3s did not experience a greater improvement than those that took sertraline and placebo; and a smaller study of 36 people found that DHA did not help improve depressive symptoms.

With these mixed results, it is difficult to say that omega-3s are clearly helpful in relieving depression, alone or in combination with an antidepressant.

Bipolar Disorder

A person who has bipolar disorder experiences extreme swings in mood, as well as changes in energy, and the ability to function. Along with counseling, various medications are used to treat this condition.

Not as many studies have been done on bipolar disorder and omega-3s. A review of 5 studies found that there is not enough evidence to determine the effectiveness of these fatty acids for treating bipolar disorder.

One study in the review, along with several smaller studies, have shown some benefit for depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder that includes symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. Antipsychotics and supportive therapy are common treatments.

In a review of eight studies involving 517 people, researchers did not find enough evidence to support the use of omega-3s to treat schizophrenia. One study in this review did show some improvement in the mental state of those taking omega-3s.

Researchers have discovered, though, some promising news in the area of prevention. Teens and young adults who are at an extremely high risk of having a psychotic disorder, including schizophrenia, may be able to delay its onset by taking omega-3 supplements. One downside is that since this study focused on a specific group, it is hard to apply the results to a larger population.

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a challenging condition that can involve emotional issues, including impulsivity and severe interpersonal problems. Behavioral therapy and antidepressants are often used to improve symptoms.

A review of 28 studies involving 1,742 people with BPD found that medications and supplements, including omega-3s, might not be helpful in improving symptoms. In one small study, though, 30 women with moderate to severe BPD experienced an improvement in their feelings of depression and aggression while taking EPA.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

People who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive. These symptoms often interfere with school and work. In addition to behavioral therapy, there are many medications available to treat ADHD.

There is some evidence that omega-3 and omega-6 (another type of fatty acid) might help some children and teens with ADHD. 75 children were randomized to receive the fatty acids or a placebo for 3 months. Those who took omega-3 and omega-6 supplements had an improvement in their symptoms.

A review of 13 studies with 1,011 children and adolescents had mixed results. There was limited evidence that ADHD symptoms improved in children taking omega-3 and omega-6 supplements. In children taking omega-3 alone however, no improvement in ADHD symptoms was seen.