Chromium for Adjustment Disorder

Dear Dr. McLeod,

My question concerns the use of chromium as a supplement for minor anxiety and slight depression resulting from the loss of my job a few weeks back. I've been taking Chromax brand Chromium Picolinate for approximately 12 days straight now, (once a day), but haven't noticed any change. Is chromium picolinate supposed to function like an anti-depressant in that the chromium will affect my overall mood, and can it be used with Saint John's Wort? I feel that I am in more of an emotional rut from losing my job than clinical depression.

Thank you, Dr. McLeod.

Steve

ANSWER:

Dear Steve,

Based on my limited understanding of your difficulties, it does not sound as if you have atypical depression, which responds to chromium. Rather it sounds as if you have what is termed Adjustment Reaction with Anxiety and Depression, which does not respond to chromium. I tend to agree with you that "I feel that I am in more of an emotional rut from losing my job than clinical depression." Your symptoms should clear within a few weeks after the job-loss stress has diminished.

The other point you raise is whether to take chromium with St. John's Wort. I would not suggest that, as several patients have reported that taking the two together makes them feel worse.

I suggest you stop taking St. John's Wort and taking chromium alone. Please let me know if this helps.