Hormones play an important role in regulating bodily functions and can affect a person’s mood. A hormonal imbalance may cause symptoms of depression.
Changes in hormone levels can alter mood and emotional well-being. Finding out the underlying cause and taking steps to balance and regulate hormone levels may help relieve hormonal depression.
A drop in hormones can lead to a reduced level of serotonin, which can result in increased levels of sadness, anxiety, and irritability.
A drop in testosterone levels may also affect mood and may cause –
- depression
- increased anxiety
- increased irritability
- low sex drive
- reduced energy levels
Symptoms of depression
Symptoms of depression include –
- persistently feeling sad, anxious, or “empty”
- irritability
- restlessness or frustration
- feeling hopeless or pessimistic
- loss of interest in usual activities or hobbies
- fatigue or lack of energy
- difficulty sleeping
- difficulty focusing
- appetite changes
- physical aches and pains
- suicidal thoughts or attempts
Experiencing these symptoms every day for at least 2 weeks may indicate depression
Low testosterone
In males, low testosterone levels may cause depression. Other symptoms of low testosterone include –
- low sex drive
- reduced lean muscle mass
- erectile dysfunction
- loss of facial or body hair
- irritability
- fatigue
Possible causes of low testosterone in males can include –
- injury to testicles or removal of testicles
- chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- pituitary gland diseases
- autoimmune diseases
- infections
- ageing
- obesity
- metabolic syndrome
- certain medications, including some antidepressants and narcotics
Treating hormonal depression
Treating a hormonal imbalance may relieve hormonal depression. Treatment for hormonal depression will depend on the underlying cause but may include:
- hormone replacement therapy
- antidepressants, if hormone therapy is not suitable
- over-the-counter pain relievers for physical symptoms
- testosterone therapy
- lifestyle strategies, such as getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation techniques
In Summary
If people are experiencing symptoms of depression for more than 2 weeks, it is important to contact a doctor or healthcare practitioner.
People can ask a doctor to run hormone tests if they think a hormonal condition may be causing depression.
It may help people to track the symptoms they experience, including when they occur and how frequently. This can help a doctor make a diagnosis.
Contact Balanced Healing for the following services –
- Blood/hormone tests
- Infusion Therapy – for energy
- Acudetox for addictions and drug dependancy
References
Website – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hormonal-depression#prevention
