Is a one-a-day vitamin helpful for depression?

I was at a meeting recently and happened to mention the link between nutrient deficiencies and depression, such as magnesium and Omega 3. My colleague asked if a one-a-day vitamin would be helpful for depression. My response in a nutshell was that probably wouldn’t hurt but it’s not the targeted treatment that people need.
I do take a liquid multivitamin that I find gives me energy. The liquid multi-vitamin/mineral supplements available on the market today are all a bit pricey but are also more effective in my experience perhaps due to better absorption. Even as much as I like my liquid version of a “one-a-day vitamin,” it really wouldn’t pull me out of the depression pit if I found myself there once again.
The fact is most of us need to make a whole lot of changes to get out of the pit (I made a lot of changes to stay out of the pit in my last pregnancy) and vitamins are one of those changes.
If you are struggling with depression, consider some supplements more likely to help people with depression:
There is a fairly strong body of research on the link between Omega 3 fatty acids and depression. Read about the Omega 3 foods and supplements you need for depression.
Don’t forget B vitamins for depression. Frankly, some people take them for energy even when they are not deficient. (Guilty as charged). Just don’t do it everyday for months or years. You can get too much of a good thing.
Magnesium is a mineral most of us do not get enough of in our diet. Magnesium may be implicated in your depression. Consider zinc and iron as well. Consider the link between vitamin D and depression, particularly in the winter months.
Consider buying the book Rebuild from Depression: A Nutrient Guide where you will find a whole lot of information in one organized place.
Best of luck.