Depression is a type of mental illness that can have serious and long-lasting emotional and physical effects. It can be caused by various factors and can have varied symptoms from person to person. Some of the symptoms of depression include difficulty in concentrating, feeling of worthlessness, guilt, loss of energy and appetite, and agitated or anti social behavior. However, there are many different ways of treating depression. Vitamins and Depression Vitamins are vital substances that are needed for the normal functioning of the body. But did you know that vitamins are not only required for physical health but also for the mental health. Vitamins play a significant role in the functioning of the brain. Deficiency of vitamins can lead to mental illness and can alter brain function leading to depression and anxiety. How do Vitamins Relieve Depression? People suffering from depression generally have low level of the feel good hormone serotonin. The medications prescribed to conquer depression usually contain serotonin or stimulate its secretion. It is believed that vitamins along with the right proteins may increase the chemicals responsible for making the brain neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. These chemicals thus help in dealing with the depression symptoms and also the mood swings. There is a wide range of mental symptoms associated with different vitamins. Taking certain vitamins like B- complex, C and D can ease depression and anxiety. Vitamin B1 Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, stimulates the actions of brain and aids in health of the nervous system. It prevents fatigue, memory problems, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite and vision problems. Vitamin B3 Vitamin B3 or Niacin plays an important role in improving memory and increasing energy levels of the body. It assists in metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and also in the performance of nervous system. Vitamin B can be administered for treating various mental illnesses and to increase mental alertness. Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays a key role in the synthesis of amino acids. It aids the body in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine and thus helps in regulating the mood. Deficiency of vitamin B6 leads to irritation, anxiety, insomnia and nervousness. It helps to conquer post menopause depression and anxiety in women. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 or cobalamin, is considered as an 'anti- stress' vitamin, as it enhances the activity of the immune system and thus improves the ability of the body to withstand stress. Vitamin B12 is necessary for producing blood cells and also helps in regulating appetite and promoting growth. It is important for mental health and accelerating thought process. Multivitamins for depression including vitamin B12 along with vitamin B6 and B9 are often recommended for those who are allergic to certain anti-depression medications. Vitamin C Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, plays a significant role in catalyzing the production of serotonin. It is therefore one of the best natural antidepressants. Vitamin C helps in overcoming fatigue, irritability and depressive mood disorder. Hence it is very important for our mental health. Vitamin D Vitamin D is also known as calciferol and has the ability to relieve depression disorders, especially seasonal depression. It is generally observed that lack of sunshine in winters can worsen the mood disorders. This is the reason why vitamin D supplements for depression are generally recommended during winter season. It is always advisable to take multivitamins for depression as all the vitamins work together to drive depression and anxiety away. But consult your doctor before taking any supplement. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.