Does vitamin B12 help with depression?

Updated 3 Nov 2026

Short answer

Not in people without a clear deficiency: a 2021 review of trials found no overall effect of B12 on depression scores.^[1] A B12 deficiency can come with depression, anxiety or psychosis, so NICE asks doctors to keep it in mind.^[2] See the goal stress and mood.

Sources (2)

Effects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Depressive Symptoms, and Fatigue: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression. Markun S, Gravestock I, Jäger L, Rosemann T, Pichierri G, Burgstaller JM Nutrients, 2021. PMID 33809274
Vitamin B12 deficiency in over 16s: diagnosis and management (NG239). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2024. www.nice.org.uk

More about vitamin b12

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For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.