Hi all, new to the group but long time sufferer.
I'm currently on escitalopram20mg and have been for a few years for depression my question is do or can vitamins help. ?
my gf who is very science minded (PhD level) has suggested I start taking omega 3 fatty acids and zinc in addition to the normal ad,s does anyone have any experience of these and did they help much ?
Omega 3 fish oils are supposed to help with depression, but it's best to eat oily fish which are a natural and more efficient way of absorbing them. High cocoa chocolate such as Lindt 90% cocoa but if you haven't had chocolate that dark, be warned, it doesnt't taste like chocolate (bitter as hell) Mostly weight lifting is a good way of unwinding due to the endorphines that are released (Clinical trials have proven that regular exercise is as good at dealing with stress, mindfulness and depression as a course of antidepressants) Another good way of overcoming depression is by practicing meditation and mindful awareness. both stem from Buddhist beliefs, but have a lot of backing from psychological research. They take a bit of reading up on, but I'd say it's worth it.
*ignore the first mindfulness
Thanks I do stay active with martial arts but will give the vitamins a go to, thanks for the suggestions
No problem. I've done some martial arts in the past too (karate, Tai Chi and some Brazilian Jiu ) theres always something new to learn. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is brilliant if you haven't tried it. Surprisingly technical.
Cool thanks I'm into my karate and kick boxing but find them good for relief sometimes
Sounds like your girlfriend is really supportive. I've found it's nice to pay people back. Even spontaneous acts of kindness. Like maybe buying your girlfriend some flowers (or something less cliche haha) I think volunteering with the homeless, doing something like that is really good for giving you a sense of purpose and well being and it can even lead to a career that you love if you feel passionate enough about it
I think if you eat a normal reasonably healthy diet then you don't need vitamins. The exceptions would be someone with other illnes like B12 deficiency where there are problems absorbing some vitamins. Or for those with a compromised immune system or who have problems eating. That's just my view.