Reflecting on My Mental Health Six Months on TRT
By Steve
Six months ago, I started testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). At the time, I was a bit of a mess—low energy, brain fog, and anxiety that felt like it was running my life. Fast forward to today, and I’m sitting here with a cup of tea (yes, tea—I’m Irish, after all) reflecting on how far I’ve come. It’s been a journey, and I want to share it with you.
The Before Times
Let’s rewind to last September. The kids were back in school, and I was struggling to keep up. Sarah, my little whirlwind, was starting Junior Infants, and Adam was settling into 3rd class. Jenny was juggling work and the chaos of family life, and I felt like I was just… there. Not present, not engaged, just going through the motions. My anxiety was through the roof, and I was relying on Lexapro to keep it in check. But even that wasn’t enough.
I remember one particularly rough day. It was lashing rain—proper Irish weather—and I was stuck in traffic on the way to pick up the kids. My heart was racing, and I felt like I couldn’t breathe. That was the moment I knew something had to change.
Starting TRT
After some blood tests and a chat with my doctor, I started TRT. 125mg of Sustanon weekly, plus HCG to keep the boys downstairs in working order. At first, I didn’t notice much. But after a few weeks, things started to shift. My energy levels improved, and the brain fog began to lift. It wasn’t a miracle cure, but it was a start.
The Mental Health Rollercoaster
One of the biggest changes has been my mental health. I won’t lie—it hasn’t been a straight line. There have been ups and downs, good days and bad days. But overall, I feel more stable. The anxiety is still there, but it’s manageable. I’ve been able to reduce my Lexapro dosage, and I’m feeling more like myself again.
There was a moment a few months ago that really hit home. We were at a GAA match—Adam’s team was playing, and the sun was shining (a rare treat in Ireland). I was actually present, cheering him on, not stuck in my head worrying about everything. It was a small moment, but it meant the world to me.
The Challenges
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. There have been times when I’ve questioned whether TRT was the right choice. The injections can be a pain (literally), and there’s the constant balancing act of hormones. But for me, the benefits have outweighed the challenges.
Looking Ahead
So, where do I go from here? I’m planning to keep up with the TRT and continue working on my mental health. I’ve started incorporating more exercise into my routine—nothing too crazy, just some walks and a bit of weightlifting. And I’m trying to be more mindful, to really be present with my family.
If you’re considering TRT, my advice is to do your research and talk to a doctor. It’s not a magic bullet, but it can be a game-changer. And if you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. We’re all in this together.
So, here’s to the next six months. Sláinte!