Andropausal men: What can You expect?

Andropause is the result of very low testosterone levels in the male body.

By the time men reach the age of approximately 45, they have a hormonal change similar to the menopause in woman. It is called the male menopause, or the Andropause. Unlike the female counterpart Bodily changes occur very gradually in the male body, usually accompanied by tiredness, loss of libido and dexterity and heavy mood swings. 

This is because the body is experiencing a lack of testosterone. Studies have shown that this lack can perhaps put a man at risk of things such as a heart decease and the depletion of bone density. 

Since this condition occurs in men who are in the middle of their lives, symptoms are usually easily dismissed as just another mid-life crisis. To this effect, many andropausal men go undiagnosed. 

Symptoms of andropause

Symptoms of male andropause usually include fatigue or decreased energy, decreased libido or interest in sex, weight gain, forgetfulness, depression, irritability, low self esteem, sleep difficulties and bone loss. Since andropause is the result of low testosterone levels, testosterone target-organ responses in andropausal men typically decrease causing all these symptoms.

Fatigue and low energy

When andropause strikes, a man's activity pace slows down considerably. Any form of physical activity demands more effort and the andropausal male becomes more lethargic.

Declining sex drive

Andropausal men do not only have less interest in sex but also have sex less frequently. The reason for this is that men with low testosterone levels may find it difficult to enjoy sex. Testosterone is the primary hormone that controls libido. When testosterone levels decline, the male libido follows. 

Body composition

About 10% of body mass is lost in andropausal men, and when regained is usually done so through fat. 

Forgetfulness, inability to concentrate

Andropausal men also find it more difficult to memorise and concentrate on things for a long period of time. although this symptom may be found usually, there is no doubt that it increases in Andropausal men. 

Lack of sleep

Andropausal men are also known to have a disrupted sleep pattern. 

Boys Don’t Cry: What You Can Do With Male Menopause and Depression

Men are considered tough. At a young age they were taught how to wear masks. Emotions, especially feelings, which denotes weakness does not have any room in a man’s life. Men in effect tend to deny what they truly feel. Studies show that men are more susceptible to depression since negative emotions are suppressed.

Depression is an emotional disorder. An individual who is said to be depressed begins to experience prolonged sadness, time and again anxiety, inability to concentrate, unexplainable anger and low self-esteem.

The occurrence of depression varies. Some people experience it as a form of reaction to uneventful situations in their lives. Others feel depressed as a response to excessive smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages and taking drugs. Depression can also be inevitable when an individual undergoes chemical and hormonal changes in the body.

Male menopause or known as andropause to some, is a condition in which a man undergo changes – it may be physical, emotional, or to some extent spiritual. If a male individual reacts negatively towards andropause, then he is prone to experience depression.

“Boys don’t cry,” is a cliché. It is high time that men do what is necessary to fight depression caused by male menopause phenomenon.

Acknowledgement is a key to acceptance. Male individuals should acknowledge that they too like their female counterpart also experience menopause.

Education then leads to better understanding. After accepting the fact that you have male menopause then it is best to educate yourself with the said condition. Learn what the signs and symptoms are, then the diagnosis and treatments. It is also best if you undertake research for facts and issues concerning andropause. The Internet is a good venue to learn more about male menopause and depression. There are also online organizations which you can turn to to help you with your dilemma.

Better understanding is a bridge for you to project a positive attitude. Negative emotions block your sensibility for you to have better comprehension of what is happening in your body. Depression usually roots to suppress negative emotions. It is not asked from you to portray a happy face yet you are miserable deep inside. What is being asked from you is that you have to learn how to deal with the situation. Make no room for self-pity for it will only worsen the situation.

Do something about it. After you have taken the necessary steps then move forward to getting help. Primarily, get help from your significant others. This is the time when their unconditional support and love is needed. Explain to them what you are going through. Let them know what specific help you need, if there are.

You can seek assistance from a physician who has expertise in andropause and depression. He can point out the changes that might happen to you and further prescribe you on what you should do.

Support groups may also be helpful. If there are support groups in your community, then it is best to join them so that you will feel that you are not alone in your battle.

No man should allow depression to rule his life. Male menopause is never a reason for you to wallow in depression. After all, look at the brighter side of things, andropause welcomes you to a new phase in your life – a phase where you can put down your mask and reveal your true self.