Fish oil isn’t a replacement for an entire depression treatment plan, and it’s not going to make symptoms disappear altogether.
But some evidence suggests fish oil could help alongside antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy, says Ashton Scherrer, PhD, a clinical psychologist with Providence Swedish in the Greater Seattle area.
How Do Omega-3s Affect the Brain?
“EPA and DHA help maintain the integrity of cell membranes, support neurotransmitter activity, and have anti-inflammatory properties,” says Nick Bach, PsyD, a clinical psychologist and the CEO of Grace Psychological Services in Louisville, Kentucky.
Higher ratios of EPA to DHA seem to be better at fighting inflammation and soothing symptoms of depression. Evidence suggests EPA could influence serotonin and dopamine pathways, which are key for regulating mood, says Dr. Bach.
Some fish oil supplements have more EPA than DHA, but only certain brands may include this information on the label or their website.
What the Science Says About Fish Oil for Depression
“Fish oil has mixed scientific support when it comes to helping with depression,” says Dr. Scherrer.
What Fish Oil Can’t Do
Even when fish oil does help, it’s absorbed and used by the body differently from an antidepressant. “Fish oil is first absorbed by the stomach, while a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is processed through the liver,” Scherrer says.
Scherrer explains that SSRIs stop the brain from reabsorbing the serotonin we naturally release to use for various brain functions.
