The Hidden Struggle: How Hormone Health Impacts Modern Fatherhood

In living rooms and backyards across America, a silent struggle is unfolding as fathers wrestle with overwhelming exhaustion that goes beyond typical tiredness. A recent survey of 1,000 American dads over age 30 revealed a startling reality: everyday activities are leaving many fathers completely depleted. More than half report feeling exhausted by household chores, while 50% feel drained by exercise or their day jobs. Perhaps most concerning, over a third (36%) admit to feeling exhausted simply by the act of parenting itself. These aren’t just complaints about busy schedules – they represent a deeper physiological issue that many men are only beginning to recognize. The study, commissioned by Hims, Inc., found that an overwhelming 92% of fathers recognize a connection between their symptoms and hormone health, specifically low testosterone. This awareness represents a significant shift in how men understand their bodies and wellbeing, yet many still struggle to identify all the symptoms or seek appropriate help.

The physical toll of low testosterone is well understood – 88% of surveyed fathers knew it can cause fatigue, and 96% recognized its impact on sex drive. However, the study revealed a critical knowledge gap regarding the emotional and behavioral symptoms that most directly affect family dynamics. Few fathers connected low testosterone with reduced patience (only 12% were aware of this connection), increased stress (10%), or diminished motivation (8%). This disconnect helps explain why many men suffer silently, attributing their irritability or emotional distance to external factors rather than a treatable health condition. The contrast between diagnosed and undiagnosed fathers was particularly revealing: those diagnosed with low testosterone reported substantially higher rates of daily fatigue (65% vs. 33%), low motivation (58% vs. 26%), and depression (50% vs. 22%) compared to their undiagnosed counterparts. Dr. Pete Stahl, Head of Men’s Health at Hims, emphasized the importance of understanding testosterone’s broader role: “It plays a huge role in motivation, focus, patience, and overall mood. Those are the things that drastically impact how present and engaged men can be with loved ones.”

For men who haven’t received a diagnosis but suspect something is wrong, the emotional burden can be overwhelming. The survey found that 64% of undiagnosed fathers sense something’s off with their health, and a significant 69% specifically suspect they might have low testosterone. This uncertainty breeds a host of negative emotions – 38% report feeling stressed about their symptoms, 37% experience depression, and 31% admit to embarrassment. Unfortunately, societal expectations around masculinity often compound these issues. Among men diagnosed with low testosterone, 64% reported having their symptoms dismissed by others, with many being told to simply “get over it” (55%) or that they were “just being weak” (41%). These dismissive attitudes reflect outdated views of masculinity that prioritize stoicism over health and wellbeing, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for countless men struggling with hormone imbalances.

The good news is that treatment for low testosterone can transform both individual wellbeing and family dynamics. Nearly half (47%) of diagnosed fathers in the study had undergone treatment, with remarkable results: 65% reported increased energy levels, 54% experienced improved focus or confidence, and 49% noted better mental health overall. Perhaps most significantly for family life, three-quarters of treated fathers (74%) said healthy hormone levels made them more patient and engaged with their children and partners. These findings highlight how addressing hormone health isn’t simply about addressing individual symptoms – it’s about enabling fathers to show up fully for the relationships that matter most to them. The ripple effects of successful treatment extend beyond the individual to strengthen family bonds and improve household harmony.

Today’s understanding of masculinity is evolving, and the survey results reflect this shift in priorities. When asked to define “healthy masculinity,” fathers overwhelmingly prioritized being a good father (64%) and a good partner (59%), followed by maintaining good mental health (56%) and emotional maturity (53%). Traditional markers like physical toughness (37%) or having a “macho” personality (13%) ranked far lower on their list. This redefinition suggests that modern fathers value emotional presence and family connection far more than outdated stereotypes might suggest. Their greatest desire isn’t to project strength or stoicism, but rather to be fully present and engaged with their loved ones – something that hormone health directly impacts. As Dr. Stahl noted, “When men feel their best, they show up their best, and their families feel the difference.”

The path forward requires dismantling stigma and increasing access to education and treatment. “Men shouldn’t have to struggle in silence or navigate stigma alone,” emphasized Dr. Stahl, pointing to the importance of comprehensive, accessible treatment options. The survey’s findings call for a broader conversation about men’s health that acknowledges the complex interplay between physical symptoms, emotional wellbeing, and family dynamics. By recognizing low testosterone as more than just a physical issue – but as a condition that affects patience, engagement, and emotional availability – we can better support fathers in addressing these challenges. The rewards extend beyond individual health to strengthen the fabric of family life itself. As more men become educated about hormone health and seek appropriate care, they’re not just investing in their own wellbeing – they’re investing in their capacity to be the fathers and partners they aspire to be.