Prevalence of anxiety and depression among children and young people (CYP) is increasing, with the NHS spending around £12 billion on this in 2022-2023 [1]. Under current psychological and
pharmacological interventions, only a third to a half of CYP recover fully [2], with treatment
access and engagement further hindered by long waitlists and stigma [3]. Emerging evidence suggests a strong link between micronutrient deficits—particularly Vitamin-B6 [4-9]—and psychological distress, suggesting a low-cost, accessible adjunct therapy. However, the extent to which nutritional interventions can circumvent the social barriers associated with traditional mental healthcare remains underexplored.
This sequential mixed-methods project will examine the acceptability and feasibility of integrating
Vitamin-B6 supplementation into standard care. Phase-1 uses a large-scale survey with CYP,
families, and professionals, to map stakeholder attitudes toward nutritional versus conventional
interventions. Phase-2 employs qualitative methods to capture lived experiences and inform trial
design. Focus groups with CYP, parents, and professionals will co-produce the language, outcome
measures, and feasibility criteria used in the Phase-3 RCT. Phase-3 delivers a double-blind,
placebo-controlled feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) within the unique NHS Anxiety and Depression in Young People (AnDY) Research Clinic. This will test whether Vitamin-B6 alongside psychological care improves clinical outcomes, reduces perceived stigma, and improves adherence to interventions compared to standard care alone.
This project is directly aligned with the SEDarc theme ‘Healthy, Thriving Communities’. Findings
from this and follow-on projects will inform future clinical guidance and service development that
improve access and reduce burden on the NHS.