Fish Oil & Emotional Disorders

Tough days can be emotionally draining and leave you feeling down. When that feeling lasts for an extended period and prevents you from participating in normal life activities or decreases your enjoyment of life, it may be a more serious disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 9.5 percent of Americans are affected by mood disorders, and 45 percent of these cases are considered severe. Mood disorders include depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. A variety of therapies treat the complexities of these illnesses, and researchers are looking at dietary components for more solutions. The fatty acids in fish oils offer promising results.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential oils found in cold-water fish, such as wild salmon, tuna and halibut, as well as flaxseeds, nuts and some plants. It is also available as a dietary supplement in fish oil capsules. Essential oils are necessary for good health. Your body cannot synthesize them so it is necessary to get them through your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids positively affect brain function, including mood and behavioral function. A deficit in omega-3s is linked to depression, mood swings, fatigue and cognitive decline.

Fish Oil and the Mind

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, appear to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, according to a study published in the journal "Lipids in Health and Disease" in 2007. The study found that omega-3s from fish appear to increase dopamine or serotonin neurotransmissions to relieve emotional symptoms associated with mood disorders. Researchers noted a striking increase in mood disorders among participants with low levels of omega-3s. Supplementation of omega-3s added to the participants' standard medical treatment resulted in significant improvement of symptoms. Researchers note that the effects of omega-3s require further study, specifically of the benefits of two omega-3s compounds, docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. These compounds appear to affect mood disorders with varying results.

Fish Oil and Overall Health

According to a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry" in December 2006, omega-3 fatty acids from fish sources provide a protective effect in patients with mood disorders. Researchers cited other health benefits of omega-3s, which include reducing inflammation and risk of obesity and heart disease, as well as offering protective value to smokers -- lifestyle patterns noted in higher incidence among patients with mood disorders. Omega-3s also appear to reduce some of the side effects associated with psychotropic medications.

Fish Oil Treatment for Mood Disorders

While research on the therapeutic effects of fish oil, specifically the omega-3 fatty acids, is promising, additional research is needed into dosage and efficacy of compounds for each type of mood disorder. Furthermore, research shows that the benefits are greatest when omega-3s are used in conjunction with standard psychiatric treatments. Fish oil supplements do not appear to offer significant benefits for some mental illnesses. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder, consult with your doctor for the best treatment options.