Can Low Testosterone Cause Depression and Anxiety?

It's a common notion to think that hormones are going haywire in the background when you're feeling off, especially with women.

But what many fail to realize is that the same also goes for men

When testosterone levels drop, it can quietly affect how you feel and function, may it be mentally, emotionally, or physically. Most men will chalk it up to burnout, stress, or simply age, but low testosterone may actually be a bigger factor than you would expect.

If you have been feeling more anxious, unmotivated, or down than usual, then your hormones might be worth a closer look.

The Link Between Testosterone and Mood

Contrary to popular belief, testosterone is more than a hormone tied to sex drive or physical strength. It also plays an important role in brain function and mood regulation. So, when testosterone levels go plunging (or even when heightened), it can affect how you feel, think, and respond to everyday stressors. 

Here's how it can affect you:

• It can lower dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain (both linked to feelings of happiness and calm)
• Energy dips and mental fatigue, which can then lead to irritability or apathy
• Emotional instability in general, which will make you feel more anxious, moody, or overwhelmed

So, Can Low Testosterone Cause Depression and Anxiety?

Yes, low testosterone can contribute to depression and anxiety. 

Clinical studies have linked low levels to emotional symptoms like low mood, irritability, and anxiety, especially in men with significantly reduced testosterone. While it may not directly cause major depressive disorder, it can affect how the brain handles emotion, motivation, and stress. 

A review by Johnson et al. found that both high and low testosterone levels are associated with mood disorder symptoms, with low testosterone more commonly tied to depressive patterns. 

So, if you’ve been feeling emotionally off (like you're more withdrawn, anxious, or frustrated than usual) and you’re also experiencing physical signs like fatigue or low libido, low testosterone could be contributing more than you think.

How to Recognize the Signs of Low Testosterone

Not every man with low testosterone will feel the same, but there are some common patterns to watch for. If you’re experiencing any combination of the following symptoms, it might be time to take your hormone health seriously:

• Persistent fatigue that doesn’t seem to improve with rest
• Loss of motivation or interest in daily activities
• Increased irritability or mood swings
• Anxiety or a sense of being constantly on edge
• Depressed mood or a feeling of emotional flatness
• Poor concentration or "brain fog"
• Reduced libido or performance issues

These can creep in gradually, which is why they’re often written off as the result of work stress, aging, or personal circumstances. But when testosterone is the root cause, no amount of caffeine, sleep, or time off can fully bring you back to normal.

How to Know if Your Testosterone Is Low

The only way to know for sure is to get your levels tested. Many men are surprised to learn that their testosterone is far below what’s optimal for their age group.

At Craft Men’s Clinic, this starts with a simple lab test and a virtual consult. You’ll get a clear view of your numbers, and what those numbers actually mean for your body and mood.

Fixing Low Testosterone and Feeling Like Yourself Again

The good news is that low testosterone doesn’t have to be permanent. If your lab work confirms that your levels are off, treatment options are available. At Craft Men’s Clinic, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Our TRT plans are customized to help restore balance safely and effectively, with support from expert physicians who monitor your progress every step of the way.

Ready to find out if low testosterone is affecting how you feel?

Reach out to us today and let us help find your footing again.

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