Omega-3 supplements in the prevention and treatment of youth depression and anxiety symptoms: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction Omega-3 supplements may be efficacious in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in adults, particularly as an adjunct to antidepressant medication. However, research in young people is limited. Thus, this scoping review aimed to summarise existing evidence on the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation in treating depression and anxiety symptoms in young people aged 14–24. A secondary aim was to determine whether grey literature intended for the general public accurately reflects the evidence. Method Four databases (Cochrane CENTRAL, EmBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed) were searched from inception to 4th August 2021. Eligible peer-reviewed studies were empirical studies which examined the efficacy of omega-3 supplements in preventing/treating anxiety and/or depression symptoms in young people aged 14–24. Risk of bias was assessed for randomised studies using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Selected grey literature databases were also searched, with eligible sources assessed for quality. A stakeholder group including young people with lived experience of anxiety/depression, parents/carers and mental health professionals informed the research questions and data interpretation. Findings were summarised using narrative synthesis. Results 17 empirical studies (N = 1240 participants) meeting inclusion criteria were identified. Studies varied in treatment and participant characteristics. In general, the data did not support the view that omega-3 supplements were efficacious in improving symptoms of anxiety or depression in young people aged 14–24. In contrast, most grey literature sources recommended the use of omega-3 supplements in young people. Discussion Evidence for efficacy of omega-3 supplementation in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in young people was inconclusive. More research is needed to identify potential mechanisms and moderators of the effect of omega-3 supplements on depression and anxiety symptoms in young people.