Symptom guide
Depression and low testosterone: what every Australian man should check
Low mood, loss of motivation, and anhedonia overlap heavily with low testosterone. A simple blood test rules in or out the most common reversible cause.
If you are in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000.
Low testosterone shares many features with depression — fatigue, low motivation, poor sleep, low libido. Australian endocrine guidelines support a morning testosterone test as part of the work-up for new-onset depression in men over 40.
Other causes to rule out
- Primary depression — always assessed first.
- Hypothyroidism — measured by TSH.
- Vitamin D deficiency — particularly in winter months.
- Alcohol use disorder — both a cause and consequence.
The Australian work-up
- GP assessment for depression — K10 or PHQ-9.
- Take the free ADAM screen alongside.
- Morning fasting bloods: testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, TSH, vitamin D, FBC.
- If T is confirmed low, endocrinology referral for PBS-subsidised TRT.
People also ask
Can low testosterone cause depression?+
Low testosterone is independently associated with depressed mood, low motivation, and anhedonia in men. It does not replace assessment for depression but is a reversible contributor in 5–10% of cases.
Should I get my testosterone tested before starting antidepressants?+
Australian guidelines support including a morning testosterone test in the work-up of new-onset depression in men over 40, particularly with low libido or fatigue.
Can treatment help my mood?+
Low mood and depression need their own assessment and care, whatever your testosterone level. If low testosterone is also confirmed, a doctor will discuss whether any treatment is appropriate. Results differ between people and are not guaranteed. If you are struggling, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Get matched with a men's health doctor for low testosterone
Leave your details and a partner men's health clinic will call you at a time that suits, to talk about your symptoms and whether a blood test may be appropriate.
Take the free 2-minute symptom check
The ADAM symptom check shows whether your symptoms may be worth discussing with a doctor. You can also request a callback to get matched with a men's health doctor at a partner clinic, by telehealth or in person, for an assessment.
Start the free assessmentWant to talk to someone first? Read how getting matched with a doctor works.
*Blood tests may be bulk billed where eligible, subject to doctor assessment and clinical indication.