Conversations about wellness tend to be focused on physical health and overlook mental health. In support of #WorldMentalHealthDay, here are our top recommended supplements for protecting mental health. We hope that more people will pay attention to mental health and help reduce the stigma around mental illness.

If you are having suicidal thoughts or feel like you may hurt yourself or others, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).

Vitamin D

The link between vitamin D deficiency and depressive disorders is well established. Deficiency is now an international public health problem that affects a billion people around the world. Low levels of vitamin D are linked to depression. Vitamin D is also essential for our nervous system and bone health.

From empirical results and epidemiological studies, we know that the vital nutrient has an impact on the illness. A 2014 meta-analysis of 15 RCT (randomized controlled trials) concluded that in all unflawed studies, vitamin D supplements improved effects of depression. The size of the effect was comparable with the effects of antidepressants.

Folate and B12

Low levels of both folate and vitamin B12 are associated with depression. Furthermore, low folate levels are linked to a poor response to antidepressants and folic acid treatment has been shown to improve the effects of these medications.

Vitamin B12 is necessary to form healthy red blood cells, neurological function and DNA. Like other B vitamins, vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in how our bodies metabolize fat and protein from our diets.

Both folate and vitamin B12 are plentiful in our diets, but many people need more than they get. Our hair skin and nail formula has the full suite of B vitamins, including folate and B12, that helps boost energy, hair growth and healthy skin and nails.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Essential fatty acids EPA and DHA are crucial for dozens of bodily functions, including maintaining healthy cholesterol, cognition, inflammation and heart health. DHA is particularly important for brain development.

Some studies suggest that people with higher omega-3 intakes may have a lower risk of certain cancers and cognitive diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's.

A 2016 meta-analysis of 26 studies found that people who eat more fish have 17% lower risk of depression. While more research is needed, omega-3 fatty acids clearly play a role in brain health and cognition.