How COVID Lockdowns Inspired Self-Reflection
By Steve
The COVID lockdowns were a strange time for all of us. For me, it was a period of forced introspection, a time when the world slowed down, and I had no choice but to confront the things I’d been avoiding. As an Irishman who’s never been great at sitting still, it was a challenge. But looking back, it was also a gift—one that helped me refocus on what truly matters: my mental health, my family, and yes, even my testosterone levels.
The Chaos Before the Calm
Before the lockdowns, life was a whirlwind. Between work, family, and the endless grind of daily responsibilities, I barely had time to breathe. My TRT regimen (125mg of Sustanon weekly plus HCG) was keeping me afloat, but I was running on fumes. Anxiety was a constant companion, and I was relying on Lexapro to keep it in check. Sound familiar? I’m sure many of you can relate.
Then, in March 2020, the world came to a screeching halt. Schools closed, offices shut down, and suddenly, I was home all day with Jenny and the kids. At first, it was chaos. Sarah and Adam, then 6 and 3, were bouncing off the walls, and Jenny and I were trying to juggle work, parenting, and not losing our minds. But as the weeks turned into months, something shifted.
Finding Time for Self-Reflection
With nowhere to go and no distractions, I found myself with something I hadn’t had in years: time. Time to think, time to reflect, and time to confront the things I’d been avoiding. I started journaling, something I hadn’t done since my early 20s. I wrote about my anxiety, my struggles with mental health, and how my TRT journey had been both a blessing and a challenge.
One evening, after the kids were in bed, I sat down with Jenny and had a proper heart-to-heart. We talked about how the lockdown was affecting us, how we were feeling, and what we wanted for our family when this was all over. It was one of those conversations that changes everything. We realized we’d been so caught up in the daily grind that we’d lost sight of what really mattered.
The Role of Testosterone in Mental Health
As someone on TRT, I’ve always been aware of the connection between testosterone and mental health. But the lockdowns brought that connection into sharp focus. With my routine disrupted, I noticed how much my mood and energy levels were tied to my hormone levels. On the days I stuck to my TRT regimen, I felt more balanced and focused. On the days I slipped, I felt the difference immediately.
This got me thinking about how many men out there might be struggling with low testosterone without even realizing it. The lockdowns were a wake-up call for a lot of us, forcing us to pay attention to our bodies and minds in ways we hadn’t before. If you’ve been feeling off lately—low energy, mood swings, or just not yourself—it might be worth getting your testosterone levels checked.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
As we emerge from the pandemic, I’ve tried to hold onto the lessons I learned during the lockdowns. I’ve made a conscious effort to slow down, to spend more quality time with my family, and to prioritize my mental health. I’ve also become more open about my struggles, whether it’s with anxiety, TRT, or just the challenges of being a dad in his 40s.
So, if there’s one thing I hope you take away from this post, it’s this: don’t wait for a global pandemic to force you to slow down and reflect. Take the time to check in with yourself, to talk to your loved ones, and to make your mental and physical health a priority. And if you’re on TRT or thinking about it, remember that it’s not just about the numbers on a blood test—it’s about feeling your best and living your best life.
Final Thoughts
The COVID lockdowns were tough, no doubt about it. But for me, they were also a turning point. They forced me to confront the things I’d been avoiding and to make changes that have had a lasting impact on my life. If you’ve been through something similar, I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below or shoot me a message. Let’s keep the conversation going.
And remember, lads, it’s okay to slow down. It’s okay to reflect. And it’s definitely okay to talk about your mental health. After all, we’re all in this together.
P.S. If you’re in Ireland and looking for a good laugh, check out the latest GAA highlights. Nothing like a bit of hurling or football to remind you of the good things in life.