Last updated on July 9, 2025
Testosterone is often thought of purely in physical terms — linked with muscle mass, libido and energy. But its influence goes deeper, with growing evidence suggesting it may also play a role in regulating mood and cognitive function. This has led many to ask: how closely are testosterone and mental health connected?
In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between testosterone levels and emotional wellbeing, including what happens when testosterone is low and why more men are becoming aware of their hormonal health when making long-term decisions about reproductive care.
Understanding Testosterone and Its Role
Testosterone is a key hormone produced in the testes, responsible for a range of physiological functions in men. While it’s most commonly associated with sexual development and physical strength, testosterone levels also influence mood, motivation and mental clarity.
This hormone interacts with receptors in the brain that help regulate emotional responses and cognitive processes. As such, changes in testosterone may impact how a person feels, thinks and functions day-to-day.
Mental Health and Hormones: The Link
Hormones like testosterone are part of the body’s intricate chemical communication system. When levels are in balance, they support stable mood and cognitive health. But hormonal imbalances in men (particularly a drop in testosterone) can sometimes affect emotional regulation.
Some studies have pointed to a connection between low testosterone and depression, anxiety, irritability and a general sense of fatigue or mental fog. These symptoms aren’t always caused by hormone changes alone, but testosterone may be a contributing factor in some cases.
What Happens When Testosterone Is Low?
A decline in testosterone can happen naturally with age, but it may also occur due to lifestyle, stress, or medical conditions. Common symptoms of testosterone imbalance can include:
- Low energy or persistent fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced motivation or drive
- Mood swings or increased irritability
- Feelings of sadness or depression
Some men describe this as a general “flatness” — not severe enough to meet clinical thresholds, but enough to affect quality of life. The relationship between testosterone and anxiety is also under investigation, with some studies suggesting that lower levels may affect how the body handles stress.
Understanding testosterone and mental health can help men recognise the signs of hormonal imbalance early.
Addressing Low Testosterone: What Are the Options?
When testosterone levels are clinically low, identifying the cause is the first step. In some cases, this may involve age-related decline; in others, it could be linked to stress, lifestyle, or underlying health issues.
If symptoms like persistent fatigue, low mood, or mental fog are present alongside low testosterone, a healthcare provider may consider treatment options. These can range from lifestyle changes (such as improving sleep, exercise and diet) to medical interventions where appropriate.
However, it’s important to approach this holistically. Mental health concerns often involve a combination of physical, psychological and environmental factors. Testosterone levels are just one part of the picture and any treatment plan should be guided by a thorough evaluation from a qualified professional.
The Vasectomy Connection: A Moment for Men to Reflect on Health
Although The Cooper Clinic focuses on vasectomy procedures, the decision to undergo permanent contraception often prompts broader conversations about health, relationships and long-term wellbeing. It’s not uncommon for men to reflect on energy levels, mood and overall vitality during this period.
While vasectomy does not affect testosterone production, some men may mistakenly associate post-procedure changes in mood or libido with hormonal shifts. In reality, testosterone levels remain stable after a vasectomy, but if emotional or physical changes are noticed, it may be worth exploring whether unrelated factors like stress, sleep, or lifestyle are playing a role.
Final Thoughts: Taking Mental Health Seriously
There is growing awareness around the connection between testosterone and mental health, but it’s a complex picture. Low testosterone may contribute to mental health symptoms in some men, but it’s rarely the only cause.
If you’ve recently had a vasectomy and are noticing changes in how you feel, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider. While vasectomy is a safe and effective procedure, your overall wellbeing (both physical and emotional) matters just as much.
How to book a vasectomy appointment
- Fill out our online booking form
- Call us: 0800 884 408
- Email us: info@thecooperclinic.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
How does testosterone affect mental health?
Testosterone helps regulate brain function, mood stability and energy levels in men. Low levels may contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, irritability and reduced motivation.
Can low testosterone cause mood swings?
Yes, mood swings can occur when testosterone levels are significantly below normal. This may be due to hormonal disruption affecting emotional regulation.
What are the signs of low testosterone in men?
Common signs include decreased energy, low libido, poor concentration, irritability and depressed mood. Physical changes like reduced muscle mass may also appear.
Does testosterone help with depression?
Testosterone may help alleviate depressive symptoms in some men with clinically low levels. However, it’s not a universal treatment for depression and should be considered part of a broader medical assessment.
Can low testosterone lead to anxiety?
Emerging research suggests a possible link between low testosterone and increased anxiety in some men. The exact relationship varies and may depend on individual health factors.
Does hormone imbalance affect mental wellbeing?
Yes, hormone imbalances (including testosterone deficiency) can influence mood, cognition and overall emotional health. These effects may be subtle or more pronounced depending on severity.
What are the mental health symptoms of low testosterone?
Symptoms may include low mood, loss of interest, difficulty concentrating and persistent fatigue. These can overlap with other conditions, making professional evaluation important.
Can testosterone treatment improve mood?
In men with confirmed testosterone deficiency, medically supervised treatment may lead to improved energy and mood. Individual results vary and treatment should only follow thorough testing.
About The Author
Dr Luke Wee
Meet Luke, our very own vasman. NZ men benefit from his hands-on experience in performing nearly 3,000 vasectomies! Luke has a special interest in men’s health and vasectomy procedures. He’s a Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, a member of the Association of Surgeons in Primary Care and an international vasectomy peer group. Luke keeps his thumb on the pulse and consistently updates his skills and knowledge by attending national and international conferences.
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