Vitamin D deficiency and its association with Depression in under 18s: A mysterious relationship of sunlight with darkness

Abstract

Abstract Vitamin D receptors are present in areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. It is suggested that Vitamin D may modulate the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation and are implicated in depression. Vitamin D also has anti-inflammatory properties and can influence immune system functioning. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of depression. Vitamin D may help regulate the immune response, reducing inflammation and potentially mitigating depressive symptoms. The deficiency of this vitamin has been previously thought to be not as common as recognized now. This review looked at several studies to explore the association of Vitamin D deficiency and clinical depression in children and adolescents. Many studies based on adult population have found plausible link between Vitamin D deficiency and depression but the research in under 18s have been limited. Based on the available research, mental health clinicians need to maintain a high clinical suspicion, to make early diagnosis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency.