Lesson Three - How Hormones and Genes can Affect Mental Health
Male and Female Hormonal Differences
Male
Males are not affected as much as females by hormonal fluctuations simply because they do not have monthly menstrual cycles. There is an age-related condition, however, called andropause (that occurs around ages 45-65) that signifies a drop in testosterone levels and where some testosterone is converted into oestrogen. This significant drop and conversion of testosterone levels radically alters the hormone balance in males.
Along with the signs listed on the previous page, males could potentially experience erectile dysfunction and lose muscle strength. Males could experience lowered motivation and self-confidence, issues with concentration and memory, and feelings of depression. Lower levels of testosterone may also result in issues with sleeping properly, and there is a close connection to sleep and mental health.
Female
Continual hormonal fluctuations determine the female monthly menstrual cycle. During the first week of the cycle, estrogen is low but climbs steadily. Lower levels of estrogen are related to increased memory skills, a happier mood, and more energy.
The second week of the cycle sees further increases in estrogen as well as a rise in testosterone. This still relates to good memory skills and a happier mood but also helps with self-confidence. All of these aspects will have a positive effect on
mental health. Some women will, however, be negatively affected in the second week because of too much estrogen released, resulting in feelings of anxiety or stress.
In week three of the cycle, progesterone starts to rise, while estrogen and testosterone decrease rapidly. This change in hormones can lead to feelings of irritability, fatigue, and sullenness. Since progesterone is known as a “sedating” hormone, it can cause females sensitive to this hormone to have episodes of sadness or crying during this time.
In week three of the cycle, progesterone starts to rise, while estrogen and testosterone decrease rapidly. This change in hormones can lead to feelings of irritability, fatigue, and sullenness. Since progesterone is known as a “sedating” hormone, it can cause females sensitive to this hormone to have episodes of sadness or crying during this time.
Pixabay
In the final week of the menstrual cycle, both estrogen and progesterone drop quickly. With this sudden drop in estrogen, the effect on a woman’s mood can be negative, with sadness, irritability, and anxiety being the top feelings. However, lifestyle does play a big role in if (or how) intense a female feels these effects. Healthy eating, exercising, and sleeping regularly will all help to decrease the effects these hormones have during this time.
If you want to dig a little deeper on this topic, visit Hormonolgy - Female Hormone Cycle.
Is there a difference between PMS and something more severe? Check it out at Jean Hailes For Women's Health - How hormones impact mental health.