What Strategies or Treatments Can Help Improve Low Motivation Potentially Linked to Low Testosterone?

Reviewed by Garrett Kneese, MD, MPH

Family Medicine

Making healthy lifestyle choices and, when needed, testosterone replacement therapy are strategies that may help improve low motivation when it is linked to low testosterone.

Explanation

When low motivation might be connected to low testosterone, some strategies can help. First, healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and having enough sleep can support hormone balance and boost overall energy. These steps help the body work better and may improve mood. Second, if tests show that testosterone levels are low, a doctor might recommend testosterone replacement therapy. This treatment can come in the form of patches, gels, or injections. In studies, many men have reported feeling better energy-wise by using testosterone treatment, although the improvement in motivation can vary from person to person. The research shows that while testosterone therapy may help, it often works best when combined with lifestyle adjustments. Lastly, discussing mental health and stress management strategies with a healthcare professional is important. Together, these treatments—lifestyle changes, possible testosterone therapy, and mental health support—create a plan that may help improve motivation. Always talk with your doctor first to find the best treatment plan for your needs.

(References)

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Cohen J, Nassau DE, Patel P, Ramasamy R. Low Testosterone in Adolescents & Young Adults. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2020 Jan 10;10:916. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00916. Erratum in: Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2020 Jul 14;11:449. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00449. PMID: 32063884; PMCID: PMC6966696.
Straftis AA, Gray PB. Sex, Energy, Well-Being and Low Testosterone: An Exploratory Survey of U.S. Men's Experiences on Prescription Testosterone. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019 Sep 5;16(18):3261. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16183261. PMID: 31491933; PMCID: PMC6765788.
Rojas-Zambrano JG, Rojas-Zambrano AR, Rojas-Zambrano AF, Barahona-Cueva GE. Benefits of Testosterone Hormone in the Human Body: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2025 Feb 9;17(2):e78785. doi: 10.7759/cureus.78785. PMID: 39926620; PMCID: PMC11807418.

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