Depression is a serious cognitive problem that affects an estimated 1 out of 10 Americans. This doesn’t include the number of people who suffer from temporary depression (like Seasonal Affective Disorder) or from people who suffer very mild symptoms. Often, anxiety and depression can stem from events that need psychotherapy but a lot of the time depression and anxiety can be related to a chemical problem in the brain.

The good news is that there are many drugs and supplements that may help augment your mood. Everyone is different and this article focuses on some of the most common and well researched nootropics for possible aid in helping with mood. Some people find that increasing Serotonin and Dopamine receptor efficiency will yield the best results for depression. Others often find they need a central nervous system stimulant that is only offered in certain stimulant drugs.

Aniracetam

Aniracetam is a favorite mood boosting nootropic for many. It has also been well documented to help with mood. Not everyone who takes Aniracetam may feel this result but it is common in reports to help improve mood. Depression usually causes a considerable amount of “laziness” and Aniracetam may help this area by increasing energy levels and the want to get things done. Aniracetam may also produce a very subtle but notable effect on well-being feelings.

Some people who have tried Aniracetam have labelled it as the best mood boosting nootropic. Aniracetam and racetams in general may increase agitation and exaggerate depression and anxiety in some. In this case, it is recommended to stop using the supplement for this purpose.

Sulbutiamine

Sulbutiamine is another great nootropic to help with mood. Some people have compared Sulbutiamine to MDMA’s anxiolytic and anti-depressant qualities without the amphetamine stimulation. This is a rather bold statement but is likely proof that this B1 Vitamin derived nootropic may have some great mood boosting qualities. Sulbutimaine defiantly works for some and has been prescribed in countries outside North America to help with depression.

Sulbutiamine’s effects on mood are likely related to effects it has on dopamine. This nootropic increases dopamine and dopamine (D1) receptor density in the prefrontal cortex. Dopamine transmission problems are often a cause of depression. This would explain Sulbutiamines’ effects on possible mood improvement. It was also seen in a study to reduce behavioural inhibitions which are commonly seen in peoples with shyness and depression.

Noopept

Noopept’s mood boosting effects are similar to Aniracetam. It is believed that Aniracetam and Noopept work on similar Serotonin and Dopamine receptor sites. You may prefer one over the other and Noopept is stronger in potency than Aniracetam. This is not to say you would prefer one over the other. If you do like Aniracetam’s effects on mood, it is likely you would enjoy Noopept due to the similar method of action. Noopept seems to have overall effects on general “well-being” feelings and promotes a desire to get things done. It also seems to have some anxiolytic effects in some.

Adrafinil

Adrafinil is not really a nootropic in the sense that it is slightly toxic (especially on the liver). We do not recommend that you take Adrafinil but regardless it has been added to the list of OTC nootropics. If the above nootropics do not seem to help your mood, Adrafinil may help. Adrafinil is really the same as Modafinil, which is a prescription “wakefulness promoter”. Adrafinil affects the dopamine and serotonin systems and is great from promoting productivity enhancement. These effects may influence your mood by reducing laziness and depression. Adrafinil can be obtained OTC but should be used as second choice to the above nootropics. It is recommended to get Modafinil instead of Adrafinil if possible (legally of course)

Inositol

Inositol is similar to the B-Vitamin group and has been reported to have effects on mood, namely anxiety improvement. Inositol may potentiate the effects of GABAeric drugs like benzodiazepines by increasing binding efficiency at GABAa receptor sites. Increasing GABA levels and GABAa receptor uptake may help promote feelings of calmness and therefore reduce anxiety and depression levels. Inositol may also help reduce stress levels and promote healthy sleep patterns.