Depression Profile - Males LIS Code: Depression M
Comprehensive male depression blood test assessing testosterone, thyroid, vitamin B12, and glucose levels. Identify physical causes of low mood and fatigue.
What's included in this profile
- The main form of oestrogen in women of reproductive age
- Used to assess ovarian function, fertility and menopause status
- Also present at lower levels in men
- A pituitary hormone that regulates egg/sperm production
- Used to assess fertility and menopause status in women
- Also checked in men to help assess sperm production
- The active, unbound form of the main thyroid hormone T4
- Checked alongside TSH to assess thyroid function
- Helps confirm an over or underactive thyroid
- Measures red cells, white cells and platelets
- A foundational test for overall health, anaemia and infection
- The 'Differential' breaks white cells down by specific type
- The main sugar circulating in the blood, used for energy
- Raised fasting levels can indicate prediabetes or diabetes
- A cornerstone test for metabolic health
- Often called 'good' cholesterol
- Helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream
- Higher levels are generally protective for heart health
- Reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 23 months
- The main test used to diagnose and monitor diabetes
- Not affected by what you ate that day, unlike glucose
- A pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation in women
- Also plays a role in testosterone production in men
- Checked alongside FSH for fertility and hormonal assessment
- A hormone that rises after ovulation to support early pregnancy
- Used to confirm whether ovulation has occurred
- Also monitored in early pregnancy
- An antibody associated with rheumatoid arthritis
- Can also be positive in other autoimmune or chronic conditions
- Interpreted alongside symptoms and other antibody tests
- The primary male sex hormone, also present in women
- Affects energy, muscle mass, libido and mood
- Low levels in men can cause fatigue and reduced sex drive
- The pituitary hormone that signals the thyroid to produce T3/T4
- The primary firstline test for thyroid function
- Raised or low levels suggest an underactive or overactive thyroid
- The overall amount of cholesterol in the blood
- A key marker for cardiovascular risk
- Interpreted alongside HDL, LDL and triglycerides
- Essential for nerve function and red blood cell production
- Deficiency can cause fatigue, tingling and memory issues
- Common in vegetarians/vegans and older adults
About this profile
Depression Profile – Males
The Depression Profile – Males is an advanced blood test designed to identify biological factors that may contribute to depressive symptoms in men. This profile evaluates hormonal balance, thyroid function, nutritional status, and metabolic health to help uncover the physical causes behind mood changes and low energy levels. It provides valuable insights to support a holistic and personalised approach to managing depression.
Depression overview
Depression in men is a complex condition influenced by both psychological and biological factors. It may present as persistent sadness, low motivation, fatigue, irritability, or reduced concentration. In many cases, physical imbalances such as low testosterone, thyroid dysfunction, or vitamin deficiencies can contribute to the severity of symptoms. Identifying and addressing these underlying issues can play a vital role in improving emotional stability, energy levels, and mental clarity.
Indications for testing
This test is recommended for men who are experiencing prolonged low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, appetite changes, or difficulty focusing. It is also suitable for those already diagnosed with depression but wish to explore potential biological contributors like hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues, or nutrient deficiencies that may be affecting their recovery.
What can be detected?
The Depression Profile – Males assesses several key markers that influence mood regulation and cognitive health:
Hormonal Imbalances: Measures testosterone, estrogen, and other related hormones to detect issues that can impact mood, motivation, and sexual health.
Thyroid Function: Evaluates Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free Thyroxine (FT4) levels, as thyroid dysfunction is commonly associated with depression.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Detects low Vitamin B12 and Folate, essential for brain health, energy production, and emotional balance.
Metabolic Markers: Includes glucose and lipid tests to monitor insulin resistance and cardiovascular health, both of which can influence overall well-being.
Who is this test for?
This profile is ideal for men who have ongoing depressive symptoms, poor response to antidepressant therapy, or suspected hormonal or metabolic imbalances. It is particularly beneficial for men managing chronic fatigue, low libido, or mood fluctuations, providing a deeper understanding of how physical health impacts mental wellness.
Fasting requirements
Fasting for 8–10 hours before the test is recommended for accurate glucose and lipid measurements.
