How Can Low Testosterone Levels Impact Concentration and Motivation in Adults?

Reviewed by Garrett Kneese, MD, MPH

Family Medicine

Low testosterone can make it hard to focus and feel motivated because it affects brain chemicals that help us think clearly and feel good. Studies have shown that when testosterone levels are low, adults may experience problems with concentration and decreased drive.

Explanation

Testosterone isn’t just about muscles and strength—it also plays a part in keeping our brain in good shape. When testosterone levels drop, some people may notice that they have trouble concentrating or staying motivated. Research has found that low testosterone in adults is linked to issues with brain function that can sometimes feel like “brain fog.” For example, when testosterone is low, it can affect the balance of brain chemicals that are important for focus and staying alert. In addition, studies have shown that low testosterone can be connected with feelings of depression, which can lower motivation even more. Some research also suggests that when adults with low testosterone receive treatments to raise their levels, they often see improvements in mental tasks and an increased drive to engage socially or take on challenges. This means maintaining healthy testosterone levels might be important not only for physical strength but also for clear thinking and a motivated, positive outlook on life.

(References)

Li Y, Liu M, Cui Y, Zhu Z, Chen J, Zeng F, Gao M, Li Y, Huang F, Chen H. Increased risk of testosterone deficiency is associated with the systemic immune-inflammation index: a population-based cohort study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Aug 16;13:974773. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.974773. PMID: 36051392; PMCID: PMC9424499.
Jung HJ, Shin HS. Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Cognitive Performance and Depression in Men with Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome. World J Mens Health. 2016 Dec;34(3):194-199. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.2016.34.3.194. Epub 2017 Jan 23. PMID: 28053949; PMCID: PMC5209560.
Losecaat Vermeer AB, Krol I, Gausterer C, Wagner B, Eisenegger C, Lamm C. Exogenous testosterone increases status-seeking motivation in men with unstable low social status. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2020 Mar;113:104552. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104552. Epub 2019 Dec 19. Erratum in: Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2020 Mar;113:104586. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104586. PMID: 31884320.

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