Vitamin D, originally associated with calcium regulation and bone health, is emerging as a crucial element within the scope of mental health, not only for disorders such as depression and schizophrenia, but also for autism and eating disorders. The presence of vitamin D receptors in several brain regions suggests that its role in neuroprotection, neurogenesis and neuroimmunological regulation is significant. Vitamin D deficiency in early life is associated with an increased risk of developing schizophrenia and low vitamin D levels have been correlated with depression, and with evidence for the use of vitamin D supplementation in reducing depressive symptoms. Although low vitamin D levels have been observed in children with autism spectrum disorders and mothers during pregnancy, causality is still complex. Patients with eating disorders show vitamin D deficiency, with implications for bone and mental health, and vitamin D may also have a link to impulsivity in these cases.
Vitamin D supplementation may improve some symptoms, but further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms. This overview emphasises the importance of vitamin D for mental health and the need for further studies to clarify causal relationships and develop more effective therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders.