Mental illnesses are typically treated through medication, individual or group counseling and/or other therapies, such as massage or meditation. In addition to these treatment options, particular foods and nutrients are known to help reduce or prevent symptoms of such illnesses. If you've been diagnosed with a mental illness and wish to make dietary changes, approval and supervision from a qualified professional is recommended.
Major Depression
Depression, also known as major depression or clinical depression, is a mental illness characterized by elongated bouts of negative moods, such as loneliness, sadness or lack of purpose. Depression may also cause physical pain, lethargy and changes in appetite. According to a 2008 issue of "Nutrition Journal," amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, phenylalanine and methionine may help boost serotonin and dopamine levels that are reduced in those with depression. A correlation also exists between omega-3 fatty acids and depression as populations who consume diets low in omega-3s have greater instances of the illness.
If you have major depression and wish to incorporate dietary therapy as part of your doctor-prescribed treatment plan, incorporate lean protein sources such as poultry, soy, eggs and dairy products into your diet regularly. To reap benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, consume fatty fish such as salmon, tuna or mackerel often. Additional sources of omega-3s include ground flax seed, flax seed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and canola oil.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, from elevated or "manic" highs to devastating, depressive lows. The "Nutrition Journal" suggests omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C as nutrients that provide therapeutic effects for those with the disorder. In addition, the amino acid taurine may provide a calming affect during episodes of mania.
To help treat or prevent symptoms of bipolar disorder consume fatty fish, walnuts, flax seeds and/or canola oil regularly to reap benefits of omega-3s. The American Heart Association recommends at least 6 ounces, or 2 servings, of fatty fish per week for optimum health. Incorporate vitamin C-rich foods into your diet as well, which include oranges, grapefruit, citrus juices, tomatoes, spinach, papaya and strawberries. Positive sources of taurine include eggs, fish, milk, eggs and certain forms of seaweed.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that is characterized by hallucinations, paranoia and an otherwise disrupted sense of reality. According to research published in "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids" in April, 2004, diets high in saturated fats or refined sugars and diets low in omega-3 fatty acids may exacerbate symptoms of schizophrenia.
To help prevent or reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, avoid red meat, butter, whole milk, ice cream and eggs, which provide saturated fats. Limit or avoid refined sugars such as candy, cakes, sweets and soft drinks, replacing them with whole grain carbohydrate-based foods most often. If you do not consume fatty fish, such as salmon or tuna, or other sources of omega-3s regularly, talk to your doctor about the possibility of supplementation.
Though nutrition therapy should never serve as a substitute or replacement for prescribed medication or other therapies, a healthy diet may aid in the effectiveness of treatment and improve overall physical health as well. For best results, discuss dietary lifestyle changes with your doctor or dietitian.
