Low testosterone in men is easily mistaken for depression

Testosterone is a hormone found in both sexes, but in higher concentrations in men. Testosterone and male performance often go hand in hand. This hormone makes men’s voices deeper and stimulates the growth of hair follicles and muscles on the body during adolescence. That’s also why men have more muscle than women and sex drive.

Sex hormones also play a role in promoting health. Testosterone keeps bones strong and boosts the production of red blood cells. Testosterone also plays an important role in elevating mood and improving focus.

In men, testosterone levels peak mainly in adulthood and begin to decline from the age of 40. When testosterone decreases, besides a number of changes in the body such as a decrease in biceps size, sex psychology. strength is also affected.

Symptoms of low testosterone include: Decreased sex drive, weight gain, typically increased belly fat, irritability, fatigue, loss of concentration, anemia, and decreased muscle mass.

Meanwhile, depression often manifests as a lack of interest in work, family or sex, weight loss or gain, irritability or difficulty concentrating, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and eating problems. delicious, sad or desperate, even having thoughts of suicide.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should see a doctor to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Researchers haven’t pinpointed exactly how decreased testosterone levels lead to depression, but the hormone also improves men’s moods. Testosterone stimulates the release of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter in the brain that creates feelings of joy and euphoria in the body.

In addition, the relationship between testosterone and serotonin levels also affects mood. The higher the serotonin hormone in the brain, the more severe the depression. Meanwhile, testosterone helps reabsorb serotonin in the brain, improving mood better. Many studies have also hypothesized that testosterone contains anti-anxiety activity.

Experts recommend that men take testosterone supplements to help reduce symptoms of depression and increase sexual interest. Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to improve depression in men. A 2018 retrospective study published in the Journal of Pharmacopsychiatry found that depression was significantly improved in men who received testosterone supplements and was especially effective in those who were just starting to show signs of depression.

Testosterone replacement therapy in men improves not only mood, but also cognitive ability and sex drive.

Bao Bao (According to Menstclinic)