Is your testosterone level affecting your mood?

Have you ever felt irritable for no reason? Do you find yourself struggling with motivation? Or are you feeling lower than usual? It might not just be stress or lack of sleep — your testosterone levels could be playing a role [1]. 

Testosterone affects your energy and emotional health. When your levels are off, it can seriously impact how you feel each day [2]. In this article, we help you understand just how testosterone affects mood, which is a solid first step to improving your health. 

In this article, we cover:

• How does testosterone impact mood?
• Signs your mood might be linked to low testosterone
• What causes low testosterone?
• What can you do about low testosterone?
• Take control of your health

How does testosterone impact mood?

Testosterone interacts with brain chemicals (like dopamine and serotonin), which help regulate emotions [3]. When levels are balanced, you’re more likely to feel positive, motivated, and focused. But when testosterone is low, it can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and even symptoms of depression and anxiety [4].

Research suggests that men with low testosterone may experience emotional symptoms, including increased irritability, stress, and persistent sadness [5]. This is because testosterone plays a key role in neurotransmitter function and brain health [1]. 

This relationship can be a complex one. Not only can testosterone affect how you feel, but stress itself can also impact your testosterone levels. Generally speaking, chronic stress is likely to lower your testosterone levels. We explain more on that in our blog, how stress can affect testosterone levels. 

Signs your mood might be linked to low testosterone

If you’ve been feeling persistently low, it might be worth considering whether testosterone is playing a role. 

Symptoms of low testosterone related to mood include:

• Difficulty concentrating or brain fog 
• Increased feelings of anxiety or depression
• Irritability or mood swings
• Low energy levels and lack of motivation 
• Sleep disturbances affecting overall wellbeing

Other physical symptoms of low testosterone:

• Decreased ability to increase muscle mass 
• Erectile dysfunction 
• Fatigue and reduced stamina 
• Increased body fat and weight gain 
• Lower bone density 
• Reduced sex drive 

Studies have found that low testosterone levels are linked to an increased risk of mood disorders, particularly in men as they age. What’s more, these symptoms can collectively impact a person’s confidence and emotional resilience, further contributing to mood disturbances [3].

What causes low testosterone?

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, particularly in men aged 45 and older [4]. 

Other factors can contribute to low testosterone levels, including:

• Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or obesity [4]
• Chronic stress and poor mental health [3]
• Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle [2]
• Poor diet and excessive alcohol consumption [1]
• Sleep deprivation [5]
• Underlying health issues, including prostate cancer treatment side effects [3]

What can you do about low testosterone?

If you suspect low testosterone is affecting your mood, a simple blood test can provide clarity. At Medichecks, we offer a range of testosterone tests to help you understand your levels and take action if needed. 

If your results indicate low testosterone, there are lifestyle changes and medical treatments available to help restore balance and improve your wellbeing [1].

Testosterone replacement therapy and other treatments

If you find that you have confirmed low testosterone (usually considered as two tests, at least four weeks apart), then testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be an option [2]. 

TRT is a medically prescribed treatment to restore hormone levels, potentially improving mood, energy levels, and overall health[3]. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also be considered as part of a broader approach to managing symptoms [4] – but a TRT specialist will advise you on the pros and cons of each course of treatment.

You can find out more with our TRT specialist partners, Leger.

In addition to medical testosterone treatment, lifestyle changes can also help regulate testosterone levels and improve mood:

• Eat a balanced diet – Nutrient-dense foods rich in zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats support hormone balance [2].
• Exercise regularly – Resistance training and high-intensity workouts can naturally boost testosterone levels [5].
• Prioritise sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours per night to support hormone production and cognitive function [1].
• Manage stress – Chronic stress can contribute to hormonal imbalances; mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help [3].
• Maintain a healthy weight – Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is linked to lower testosterone levels and increased emotional symptoms [4].

Read more on natural ways to increase testosterone in this helpful blog by one of the specialists at Leger. 

Take control of your health

Your mood matters. If you’ve been feeling off, checking your testosterone levels could be the first step in understanding why. 

A blood test can provide crucial insights into your hormone levels and help guide potential treatments [5]. At Medichecks, we offer convenient at-home blood tests for testosterone, allowing you to take control of your health with ease.

Find out more about our testosterone blood tests and take action today.

References:

1. Zarrouf, F. A., et al. (2009). "Testosterone and depression: Systematic review and meta-analysis." Journal of Psychiatric Practice, 15(5), 289-305.
2. Shores, M. M., et al. (2012). "Testosterone treatment and mortality in men with low testosterone levels." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 97(6), 2050-2058.
3. Corona, G., et al. (2016). "Low testosterone syndrome: An important determinant of quality of life and sexual and metabolic health." Journal of Clinical Medicine, 5(7), 70.
4. Wu, Y., et al. (2018). "Effect of testosterone supplementation on mood in hypogonadal men: A systematic review and meta-analysis." European Journal of Endocrinology, 178(5), 623-631.
5. Travison, T. G., et al. (2007). "The relationship between testosterone and mood in aging men: The Massachusetts Male Aging Study." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 92(2), 589-595.