Low Testosterone and Depression

Low mood and low libido can have many causes. For some men, low testosterone may play a part. A blood test and a talk with a doctor can help find out what is going on. Testosterone has always been linked to wellbeing, but a growing body of work links testosterone levels and mental health. Talking about it can be difficult, but it’s important to open up. Once you’ve identified the source of the problem, it will be a whole lot easier to do something about it. If you are not sure where to start, Eve Clinics can talk you through what we offer and will suggest your GP where that is more suitable.

Can low testosterone cause depression?

The evidence linking low testosterone to depression is rising. Some studies, including research published in Frontiers in Neuroscience in 2015, have found a link between low testosterone and depression. A link does not show that one causes the other. A study published a year later found that older men with low testosterone were more likely to have depression. Recognising the link between testosterone levels and depression can not only help people understand what they’re experiencing, but it can also offer hope of a way out.

Lifestyle factors

There are a number of changes you can make to your lifestyle which could improve testosterone levels. All sorts of factors such as exercise, a poor diet, or stress can bring levels down. Changing these could put things in the right direction. For starters you can change your diet to ensure lots of food rich in protein, carbs and fat. Constant dieting may be good for your waistline, but it can have an impact on your testosterone as well as your wellbeing levels in general. Exercise is always good, especially lifting weights. This is good for your overall health. Some research suggests it may also help support healthy testosterone levels. Testosterone can also be a symptom of, as well as a cause of mental health issues. High levels of stress can reduce testosterone levels. Making time to rest and relax may help. Time outdoors can help your general wellbeing. Vitamin D matters for overall health. Ask your GP or pharmacist before you start any supplement.

Testosterone treatment and mood: what we know

Some men are prescribed testosterone treatment after tests and a full medical assessment. This is a prescription-only medicine. Whether it is suitable is a decision for a doctor after looking at your own health. Although we know much more about the link between testosterone and depression, we don’t know much about how it exactly works. It may be that testosterone affects prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, or amygdal, areas which change during depression. However, more research is needed. Some research has looked at whether testosterone treatment affects mood in men with low testosterone. The researchers said more studies are needed, and it is not a standard treatment for depression. If you are feeling low, your GP is the best first step.

Getting help if you feel low

If you have felt low for more than two weeks, please speak to your GP. If you are struggling to cope or are in crisis, call NHS 111 or Samaritans on 116 123, any time. Eve Clinics offers urology consultations for some men’s intimate health concerns. Please contact us to check whether we can help with your concern, or speak to your GP about testosterone testing.