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These findings provide only suggestive evidence for symptom-specific associations between testosterone and depression, mainly related to somatic complaints. Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. Testosterone levels in males naturally decline with age. It affects male fetuses as they develop in the uterus, as well as teenage sexual development during puberty. In female adults, high levels of testosterone may be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). High levels of testosterone in female infants may lead to enlargement of their clitoris that can look almost like a penis. Excess testosterone in male children can lead to precocious (early) puberty, which is when puberty begins before the age of nine.
Some studies reported a relationship between low T levels and subthreshold depressive disorders (15, 17, 20). Further studies should show whether our speculation re a feminine profile in atypical depressive men can be confirmed. Therefore, the BMI seems to be a constitutive characteristic of atypical depression. A prospective, population-based study revealed that atypical depression was a strong predictor of obesity with an OR of 3.75 (62). This is in line with previous findings (29, 36) demonstrating a positive association between BMI and atypical depression.
Affected women may experience low libido, reduced bone strength, poor concentration or depression. Some men who have a testosterone deficiency have symptoms or conditions related to their low testosterone that will improve when they take testosterone replacement. All of this reduces the active (free) form of testosterone in the body. Among women, perhaps the most common cause of a high testosterone level is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In addition, what may seem like a symptom of testosterone excess (see below) may actually be unrelated to this hormone.
When levels are low, men often describe feeling "flat," unmotivated, or mentally foggy. Below are some of the most common emotional symptoms linked to hormonal imbalance. Low testosterone doesn’t just drain your physical energy; it can deeply affect how you think and feel. But when levels drop, men may experience low motivation, anxiety, or a sense of detachment from everyday life. When these messengers fall out of balance, your brain chemistry shifts, affecting mood regulation and emotional stability. Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers, influencing everything from energy and sleep to emotions and concentration.
Your body needs a balance of estrogen, testosterone, and other male hormones so that your ovaries can function properly. This therapy involves supplementing the body with testosterone to bring levels into a healthier range. Many men with clinically confirmed low testosterone choose testosterone replacement therapy in Houston to restore hormone levels safely with medical supervision. The aim of this study was to investigate whether pomegranate juice intake influences mood and salivary testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Abnormal testosterone levels can point to several different health issues. While there’s a clinical reference on "healthy" levels of testosterone, there’s no established information on the optimal range to diagnose abnormal levels in women. It’s okay for testosterone levels to fluctuate for women in different stages of life.