Psychiatrist explains how men also experience menopause, says ‘Andropause affects indirectly, deeply, daily’

While discussions about hormonal changes typically focus on women, particularly during menopause, men also experience a similar transition called andropause. It is marked by the slow decline in testosterone levels that many men face as they age. Andropause is a gradual change for men, and it can create emotional, cognitive, and relationship challenges. This topic is often ignored, leaving men without the words or understanding to explain what they feel when experiencing this stage.

“As a psychotherapist who has worked with many men understanding this subtle change, I cannot overemphasise how understanding andropause sheds light on an important, yet poorly understood aspect of men’s health and well-being”, explains psychiatrist Dr Chandni Tugnait. Health shots.

What are the symptoms of andropause in men?

As men go through andropause, they may experience physical and emotional changes that affect their daily lives. Let’s look at some of these effects:

1. Change in physical energy: Many men may first notice a drop in their energy levels. You may find that it takes longer to recover from workouts, feel tired all the time, or wake up not feeling rested even after sleeping all night. Additionally, you may notice a decrease in your sex drive, which is often attributed to stress or aging. However, these changes are not just temporary; They indicate a change inside your body.
2. Increased emotional sensitivity: Hormonal changes can cause unexpected emotional ups and downs for many men. Feelings of irritability, frustration, or sadness may surface more frequently. “Instead of talking about these feelings, some men may withdraw, which can create distance in their relationships,” the psychiatrist says. This struggle to express insecurities can lead to misunderstandings. Loved ones may misinterpret these mood changes as a lack of interest or affection.
3. Quiet disappearance of confidence: As testosterone levels drop, many men begin to feel self-doubt. They may question their attractiveness, abilities, and overall value. This conflict is not just a short-term insecurity; It can affect many areas of life, including sexual intimacy, job choices, and general self-esteem.
4. Changes in Identity and Meaning: Midlife often prompts many men to reflect on their lives, especially during andropause. They may reconsider the life they have built and confront dreams that no longer feel right. This questioning, intensified by hormonal changes, can create confusion and a feeling of being lost. As a result, they may struggle with their identity during this time.
5. Effect on relationships: Emotional detachment and irritability can damage relationships. Partners may misinterpret these changes as signs of indifference, leading to misunderstandings. “The issue that creates distance between couples is not lack of love, but confusion caused by hormonal changes,” says the expert.

What happens to men during andropause?

Andropause shows up as subtle changes in mood, energy, and motivation. Although these changes may not seem significant initially, they can affect a human being’s daily life.

“Many societal views about masculinity associate strength with being emotionally stable, productive, and in control,” says Dr. Tugnait. Therefore, when these internal changes occur, men may view this change as a sign of personal failure, which can bring a sense of shame and lead to emotional withdrawal.

In daily life, you may notice slight changes in your emotions. You may wake up feeling tired, hesitate in situations where you used to feel confident, or react more strongly to minor irritants. As you lose emotional support and communication, your closeness to others may diminish. This can create a cycle of alienation and misunderstanding.

How to help a person suffering from andropause?

To create a healthy conversation about andropause, we need to start with normalization. When men understand that andropause is a natural biological process similar to menopause, it can help reduce feelings of shame and isolation.

1. Role of Therapy: Support is important during this transition. Therapy gives men a safe space to talk about their feelings, manage stress, and rethink what it means to be masculine. With help, they can realize that being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; It is an integral part of living authentically.
2. building relationships: Partners need to understand each other. “When loved ones understand what men experience during andropause, they can communicate more gently and work together more effectively,” the mental health expert says. This understanding can foster emotional closeness rather than distance, turning difficult times into opportunities for growth.
3. Lifestyle Modifications: Making practical changes can help make the transition easier. “Medical advice, lifestyle changes, better sleep habits, mindfulness, and physical activity can all be beneficial,” the experts explain. By connecting with these changes, men can move through this period with more grounding and emotional awareness.

,Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.)