Can Low Testosterone Cause Anxiety?

Understanding Testosterone: More Than Just a Male Sex Hormone

Testosterone plays an essential role for both men and women.

In men, Testosterone is produced mainly in the testes. In women, it is produced in the ovaries in much smaller amounts.

Testosterone levels in men tend to peak in their late teens and early twenties, then decline gradually with age.

For women, Testosterone levels vary based on the menstrual cycle and are affected by changing hormone levels during perimenopause and menopause.

Testosterone impacts sexual function, libido, and body composition. It also impacts brain function.

Because of this, a Testosterone deficiency can influence not just physical health but mental health, as well.

How Low Testosterone May Cause Anxiety

Studies suggest that low Testosterone leads to an increased risk of mood disorders, including both depression and anxiety.

The precise connection between low Testosterone and anxiety remains under study, but researchers have identified potential explanations.

Neurotransmitters and Testosterone

Testosterone seems to play a role in regulating key neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

Serotonin, or the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, has a major impact on mood and anxiety levels.

Low Testosterone can disrupt the production of serotonin, which may lead to increased anxiety. Low T can also impact how well serotonin functions in the body.

Dopamine influences motivation and pleasure. This neurotransmitter can also be negatively affected by lower Testosterone levels, which may contribute to feelings of anxiety and low mood.

Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone. High cortisol levels are associated with anxiety, stress, and panic attacks.

Testosterone and cortisol have an inverse relationship. When Testosterone levels are low, cortisol levels often rise. High cortisol levels can also suppress Testosterone production, leading to a cycle of low T and elevated cortisol.

Because of this relationship, Testosterone’s impact on cortisol levels could lead to increased anxiety for men with low Testosterone.

Insomnia and Poor Sleep

Low Testosterone is associated with sleep issues like insomnia. Men with low T typically have a harder time falling asleep and staying asleep.

Poor sleep quality can make anxiety symptoms worse. This often leads to a cycle where anxiety disrupts sleep, and lack of sleep worsens anxiety.

Social and Psychological Factors

Testosterone is often linked to perceptions of masculinity and strength. It contributes to things like muscle growth, sex drive, and sexual function.

Low Testosterone can impact these markers of masculinity, which may cause men to lose self-confidence and self-esteem. These feelings of inadequacy can lead to anxiety and depression.