MENTAL STRENGTH

Could a supplement used by athletes and bodybuilders help treat depression?

- by IAN TAYLOR Ian is a freelance science writer and the former deputy editor of BBC Science Focus.

With the possible exception of caffeine, there's no (legal) performance-enhancing substance more potent, trusted or well-studied as creatine. In the last three decades, sports science has shown it can significantly increase an athlete's strength, muscle mass, speed and power.

In recent years, though, researchers have built a persuasive case file for creatine's role in wider health and wellbeing. Studies have shown it can improve metabolic health and cognitive performance. It can aid recovery from serious injury and facilitate healthy ageing. There's also growing evidence that it can help not just physical strength, but mental toughness, too.

In 2024, a review concluded that creatine supplementation had multiple positive effects as an adjunctive treatment for depression. Papers have found, for example, that when combined with SSRI antidepressants, the effects of the medication can be stronger.