Erratic mood swings, loss of concentration and memory impairment are typically associated with mental illnesses, but these symptoms could also be signs of a hormonal imbalance. Keep reading to learn about the role that hormones play in regulating a person’s mood, thoughts and emotions.
Hormones and Mental Health
Most people associate hormonal imbalances with symptoms like hot flashes and erectile dysfunction, but hormones have a significant impact on all aspects of your health. For example, in addition to dozens of physiological symptoms, hormone irregularities can contribute to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sudden mood swings
- Memory loss
- Trouble concentrating
Of course, all of these symptoms could also be indicative of other problems such as Alzheimer’s disease or bipolar depression. You could have a mental disorder in addition to a hormonal imbalance, so it’s important to keep seeking professional help until your symptoms are subdued.
There is much scientific discussion about the link between hormones and psychological health. Research indicates that women are more susceptible to certain psychological symptoms during different points of their monthly menstrual cycles, which suggests a strong connection between hormonal fluctuations and mental wellbeing. Men also have hormonal cycles that influence their reactions to stressors.
Menopause and postpartum depression are two well known hormone related health conditions that affect women, but anyone can experience hormonal imbalances as they age. Hormone deficiencies can also be caused by an underperforming thyroid or other underlying health issues. Everyone has emotional ups and downs; however, if you’re having trouble functioning at your usual capacity, then you should consider getting your hormone levels tested.
Hormones That Affect Your Mental Wellbeing
A provider can conduct a blood or saliva test to check your hormone levels. There are many hormones that influence your cognitive functioning including:
Testosterone: Also known as the “male” sex hormone, both men and women have testosterone in their bodies. Dips in testosterone levels have been linked to a decline in mental acumen.
Estrogen: The “female” sex hormone is also present in both sexes. Estrogen helps facilitate communication between the brain’s nerve cells. Thus, a lack of estrogen can cause memory loss and other cognitive impairments.
Progesterone: Progesterone naturally calms the brain in preparation for stressful events. It also plays a pivotal role in healing, so insufficient progesterone can prolong the recovery period for head injuries.
How Natural Bio Health Can Help You Restore Balance
If you’ve been living with the symptoms discussed above, then you might want to consider talking to a medical professional who specializes in hormone therapy. Natural Bio Health helps patients live healthier by providing bioidentical hormone replacement therapies and non-invasive medical weight loss treatments to men and women of all ages. Our expanding network of clinics includes five locations in Texas and a new office in Denver. Call us to schedule a consultation with a hormone specialist near you.