How to treat male menopausal anxiety disorder

Generally, the main treatment methods for male menopause-related anxiety include lifestyle adjustments, psychological therapy, medication, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and hormone regulation therapy. The specifics are as follows:

1. Lifestyle Adjustments

Hormonal changes during male menopause can easily trigger anxiety; maintaining a regular lifestyle helps stabilize the endocrine system. Patients should ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late. Engage in physical activities such as jogging or swimming at least three times per week. Diet should minimize spicy and stimulating foods, while increasing intake of nutrient-rich foods like soy products and nuts. Additionally, smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption help reduce physical stress.

2. Psychological Therapy

Psychological therapy can improve cognitive patterns and alleviate anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help patients identify and correct negative thought patterns. Supportive psychotherapy reduces psychological burden through active listening and encouragement. Communicating with a professional psychologist enables better adaptation to the changes of menopause and effective stress relief.

3. Medication

Medications can quickly relieve anxiety symptoms, but must be taken under medical supervision. Commonly prescribed medications include sertraline hydrochloride tablets, escitalopram oxalate tablets, and buspirone hydrochloride tablets. These drugs work by regulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain to reduce feelings of anxiety and must be used strictly according to the doctor’s instructions.

4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

According to TCM, male menopausal anxiety is associated with yin deficiency of the liver and kidneys and stagnation of liver qi. Treatment focuses on nourishing kidney yin and soothing the liver to regulate qi flow. Herbal formulas such as Liuwei Dihuang Pills, Xiaoyao Pills, and Chaihu Shugan Pills may be used. Acupuncture, which stimulates specific points to regulate qi and blood circulation, can also help relieve symptoms such as insomnia and irritability caused by anxiety.

5. Hormone Regulation Therapy

In some patients, anxiety is linked to declining testosterone levels and may require hormone regulation after medical evaluation. Testosterone replacement therapies—such as testosterone undecanoate soft capsules, testosterone patches, or testosterone gel—can help improve anxiety caused by hormonal imbalances. However, contraindications such as prostate disease must be ruled out before starting treatment.

During treatment, patients must follow medical advice precisely, avoiding self-adjusting dosages or stopping medication without consultation. Regular follow-up tests for hormone levels and liver/kidney function are essential. Family members should provide understanding and support, avoiding emotionally triggering language. If adverse drug reactions occur or symptoms worsen, immediate medical attention is required to adjust the treatment plan—do not delay care.