For most of my life, I’ve been a very easygoing person. The guy who’s always laughing and cracking jokes. But just before the COVID-19 pandemic, I started having problems with my mood. My irritability went up and my motivation to do the things I used to find fun dropped. I would spend two hours in the gym four to five days a week, but it wasn’t enjoyable anymore and I wasn’t seeing any gains. I felt like I was forcing myself to go.
Being active became a chore, whether it was working out or doing activities with my family. But it really hit home when I had no stamina to keep up with my two-year-old daughter, Adeline. I realized something was wrong both mentally and physically, and knew that I had to fix it if I wanted to be the father I promised to be. No one deserves an unhappy parent.
What Led Me to TRT
I did some research online and all signs pointed to the symptoms of low testosterone. I went to my doctor to discuss if low T could be the reason for my lack of motivation and energy. But my visit didn’t go as planned. My doctor was dismissive when I asked for a blood test to check my hormone levels. He said I was too young for any of that to be a concern (I’m 35), and that if I exercised more and got in shape, my problems would disappear. I almost gave up at that point.
A few days after my visit, I was on Facebook and one of the Hone Health ads popped up. I clicked it, read about the company’s approach to hormone optimization, and finally felt some hope. I went to my wife and explained what I was feeling and that I wanted to take the at-home test. It felt so much easier than fighting with my doctor again—with the click of a button the test would be shipped right to my door. So I thought, “Let’s see. Maybe this is what’s wrong with me.”
My T Levels Were Well Below Average
Sure enough, I was right about my hormone levels. The physician I spoke with when my lab results came back told me that my T levels were 199 (ng/dL), when levels of 300 to 1,000 (ng/dL) are considered within the normal range. I was relieved that I finally had an answer.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Was the Answer
Hone’s doctor put me on a prescription for a once-a-week testosterone injection and one Anastrozole pill to ensure the testosterone wasn’t converted into estrogen once in my system. It may have been a placebo effect, but within a week, I swore I was already feeling a little better. Three months later, I had a follow-up evaluation with my physician, who wanted to see my T levels a bit higher. He kept my dose the same, but split it into twice-weekly injections and added a second Anastrozole tablet to be taken at the same time as my second shot.
It took a while for the irritability to go away, because I believe my body was trying to get used to the testosterone levels. However, after the three-month mark, it started to level out. Since then, I’ve felt 100 percent better.
How I Changed After TRT
I’ve been on TRT for about six months, and I have solid proof that my treatment is working: my testosterone levels are in the 900s and I’m feeling more like the guy I know I am.
My motivation returned, and I actually enjoyed being physically active again. I lost 30 pounds. I took up jiu-jitsu, I’m running at least 15 miles per week on my treadmill, and I’m training for a Spartan race. I no longer feel like working out is a chore—I want to do it. I find it fun. And that’s how it used to be when I was younger.
Being on TRT has also drastically improved my relationships. Before treatment, I was irritable and not fun to be around, which affected my wife and daughter the most. Adeline was the whole reason I decided to start this journey.
My lack of motivation meant I didn’t have the energy to play with her; you just can’t be a good parent when you’re unhappy. But starting TRT brought back my motivation and determination to be the best father and husband I could be. Every day I wake up with the intention to be something Adeline could be proud about.
And naturally, that also had a positive impact on my relationship with my wife. There’s a saying that goes, “Happy wife, happy life.” I say, “A happy wife gives more loving.”
I’m nicer to her because I’m happy, which means she’s happier and more loving, too.
