According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people develops some mental health condition at some point in their lives. On a global level, about 450 million people suffer from mental health conditions meaning these disorders are among the leading causes of disability and ill health across the planet. Mental health suffers due to a wide spectrum of factors, and this article focuses on its potential connection to low testosterone.
Can low-T really cause mental problems?
Our mental health is influenced by a multitude of factors ranging from biological causes and stress or trauma to the environment in which we live. In most cases a combination of different factors contributes to some mental health problem which manifests itself through various symptoms that affect our behavior, thinking, quality of life, relationships, and whatnot. The potential relationship between low testosterone and mental problems is insufficiently discussed, and it’s time to change that. Is there a relationship to begin with? Current evidence says yes.
For example, a study from the Aging Male found that men with lower testosterone levels had higher scores in anxiety symptoms compared to men whose hormone concentration was normal. Although low testosterone induced symptoms of anxiety, they weren’t pathological, though.
Moreover, the Journal of Sexual Medicine published a study which discovered that men with lower testosterone levels have higher rates of depression. The research involved 200 adult men ages 20 to 77 with low testosterone. Results showed that 56% of subjects exhibited symptoms of depression which is significantly higher than in the general population. Based on these findings scientists advise that clinicians should recognize or test men with low-T for depression and depressive symptoms.
The above-mentioned are just two examples of evidence confirming the negative impact of low testosterone on mental health. Of course, further studies are needed to get a more detailed insight into this subject for the improved treatment of these problems.
How testosterone affects mental health?
A growing body of evidence confirms that testosterone has a significant influence on the brain functions which could explain why decreased production of the hormone impairs mental health. Sufficient levels of testosterone have antidepressant effects, but also anxiolytic, and help us combat stress more effectively. Therefore, reduced production of the hormone takes away these effects which can cause problems such as anxiety, depression, and others.
Not only does low-T negatively influence brain functions, but it can also weaken mental health indirectly too. Symptoms of low testosterone are numerous including low sex drive and erectile dysfunction. A major source of a man’s confidence and self-esteem is his sexual performance. Every guy wants to be an alpha male; he wants mind-blowing sex and being the best his girl or wife has ever had. Nothing wrong about that! When sexual performance suffers, men tend to feel insecure but these feelings aggravate then the problem becomes persistent.
As sex drive declines along with the strength and hardness of erections, men feel stressed out, frustrated and it’s needless to mention their confidence suffers. This adds to stress and relationship troubles because most guys are reluctant to discuss the issue with their significant others. Combination of all these effects can culminate in anxiety, depression, and weakened overall mental health. We can also add to that weight gain and loss of hair and muscle mass.
Plus, some men with low-T don’t get enough sleep which can only exacerbate mood and mental health and wellbeing. Through different symptoms that occur as a reaction to low testosterone, men can struggle with mental health problems.
Besides anxiety and depression, low testosterone can also contribute to:
- Stress
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
Improving mental health
First things first, men affected by this problem need to bear in mind there is nothing to be ashamed of. Mental health is fragile and complicated, it’s influenced by various factors, and low testosterone is one of them. Most of us deal with some symptoms of weakened mental health at one point or another. This doesn’t mean you’re the problem and it also doesn’t mean you’re helpless about the whole situation. In fact, you can boost your mood and mental health in more ways than one. Here are some options:
- Increase testosterone levels
So your testosterone dropped, and nothing can be done? Wrong! Work to boost production of this hormone through a healthier lifestyle and regular intake of dietary supplements. Male enhancement pills and supplements such as Male UltraCore deliver herbs, spices, and other natural compounds that support the body’s natural production of testosterone
- See your doctor
A practical thing to do for better mental health is to see the doctor who will test your testosterone levels and recommend various management strategies that would improve your mood
- Manage stress
When left unresolved stress can impair your mental health and contribute to low mood. Don’t ignore stress; instead, do something you find relaxing to combat it. Stress-relieving methods are numerous, and the choice depends on you only – read a book, meditate, sign up to the gym, options are endless
- Exercise regularly
Physical activity plays a crucial role in mental health, so it’s useful to start exercising on a regular basis. Let’s not forget that exercise is also beneficial for your testosterone, weight, physical health, confidence
- Communicate
Instead of alienating yourself and avoiding discussing these problems with your friends and family, try to communicate more. It also helps to see a therapist who will help you improve your mental health by allowing you to learn more about yourself, thoughts, and feelings
Conclusion
Low testosterone can impair mental health through its effects on brain functions, but also in an indirect manner through symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. Men with low-T can boost their mood by adopting healthy lifestyle habits that help them alleviate stress and feel better about themselves, others, and life in general. Don’t forget that raising your testosterone is important as well, and you can do it in an entirely natural way.
