We traditionally think about testosterone as helping with energy, erectile dysfunction, and libido (interest in sex). When we look closely at medical studies we find a link to depression and anxiety when testosterone is low.
I’ll repeat it: Low testosterone levels increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Higher testosterone levels decrease the risk of depression and anxiety. Taking testosterone (testosterone therapy) if your levels are low often improves depression and anxiety.
Testosterone levels are tested with blood or saliva tests. Free testosterone levels give a more accurate idea of the amount of testosterone that is available to be used by your body. Flourish can help you test your testosterone if you don’t have a healthcare provider.
Testosterone requires a prescription from your healthcare practitioner. Flourish specializes in compounding personalized testosterone and other hormones. We also have non-prescription supplements that can support testosterone production and libido. Links are below.
Once you start testosterone hormone therapy it will take 2 weeks to 3 months to see how well testosterone helps with depression, anxiety, and other health issues.
There are many other factors that can contribute to depression and anxiety including nutrient deficiencies. Keith Bishop, our clinical nutritionist specializes in assessing and testing hormones, neurotransmitters, and nutrient deficiencies. Flourish Compounding Pharmacy specializes in compounded personalized prescription testosterone and hormone therapy prescribed by our healthcare practitioner.
Medical Research References
Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2017 Dec;14(12):1549-1557
British Medical Journal. 2017 Nov;7(11):e015284
Chinese Medical Journal (Engl). 2012 Nov;125(21):3806-10.
Endocrine Journal. 2012;59(12):1099-105.
Tests
ZRT Saliva Test Kit
ZRT Neurotransmitter Test
Testosterone Blood Test
Hormone Symptoms Checklist: Men
Neurotransmitter Symptoms
Depression Patient Health Questionnaire
Reference Source
Sandstead HH, Prasad AS. Zinc intake and resistance to H1N1 influenza. Am J Public Health. 2010 Jun;100(6):970-1.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information in the Feel Better blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health program.