By Mohab Hanna, MD Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
Founder, MedPsych Behavioral Health
As a psychiatrist in Northern Bergen County, New Jersey, I discuss and prescribe psychiatric medications for a variety of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression or ADHD. At the same time, I often remind my patients that mental health doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s deeply intertwined with physical health and the complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, and nutrients in the body. One nutrient that I see as a key in mental well-being is Vitamin D. Once primarily associated with bone health and calcium absorption, vitamin D is now recognized as a key nutrient in mood regulation, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being.
What Is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is unique because your body can produce it when your skin is exposed to sunlight. It’s also available in certain foods and supplements. Vitamin D functions as a hormone in the body, influencing many systems, including the brain.
Low levels of vitamin D are remarkably common, especially during the winter months when sun exposure is limited. This is particularly true for those of us living in regions with long winters, like Bergen County and the New York Metro area. But what does this deficiency mean for our mental well-being? What is the connection between Vitamin D and what I do as a psychiatrist who prescribes psychiatric medications?
Vitamin D and Mental Health: What the Science Says
Research shows a strong link between vitamin D levels and mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. People with lower levels of vitamin D are more likely to experience depressive symptoms, and supplementing with vitamin D has been shown to improve mood in many individuals, especially those who are deficient. I frequently order Vitamin D levels, and the overwhelming majority of my patients have deficient levels.
The connection lies in vitamin D’s role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood stability. Low serotonin levels are associated with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Vitamin D also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be important since inflammation has been implicated in the development of depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
One condition where the link between vitamin D and mental health is particularly evident is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months, when sunlight exposure is reduced. Many experts believe vitamin D deficiency may be a contributing factor to this disorder.
Supplementing with vitamin D, alongside bright light therapy, may help reduce the symptoms of SAD and improve overall mood and energy levels. I regularly recommend bright light therapy as a an excellent treatment modality both for SAD and non-seasonal depression.
Cognitive Function and Vitamin D
Vitamin D’s benefits aren’t limited to mood. Studies have shown that adequate vitamin D levels are associated with better cognitive performance and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative conditions like dementia. For children, vitamin D may play a role in attention and learning, and for adults, it may help stave off age-related cognitive decline.
How to Optimize Vitamin D Levels
Given the importance of vitamin D for both mental and physical health, maintaining optimal levels is essential. Here are a few ways to ensure you’re getting enough: Aim to get more sunlight daily; eat more foods with high vitamin D content such as salmon and egg yolks; Consider supplements but I always get a Vitamin D level before recommending supplements. While vitamin D is essential, more isn’t always better. Over-supplementation can lead to toxicity, causing nausea, weakness, and kidney damage. Always consult with your psychiatry provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
At MedPsych Behavioral Health, we emphasize the integration of mental and physical health. Addressing vitamin D deficiency is one example of how simple, often-overlooked factors can make a profound difference in mental well-being. If you’re struggling with mood issues or fatigue, consider discussing your vitamin D levels with your psychiatry provider at MedPsych. Sometimes addressing your Vitamin D level can have a big impact on your overall cognitive and emotional wellness.
To learn more, schedule a free consultation at our website or email us at [email protected].
