Low Drive and Low Motivation After Menopause: What Might Be Going On
The hot flashes may have settled, but something still feels off. You're less motivated, your drive is low, workouts don't seem to build tone the way they used to, and you feel emotionally flat. It's hard to put your finger on, but you don't feel like yourself.
In Optional Aging's teaching, this is a separate pattern after menopause. It's not only about estrogen. Lower levels of testosterone and a related hormone called DHEA can also play a part in women.
What this pattern often feels like
- Low drive and motivation
- Less muscle tone, even with exercise
- Slower recovery
- Mental tiredness
- Feeling emotionally flat
- Lower interest in sex
Why it happens
Women make small amounts of testosterone and DHEA, and both tend to fall with age. They play a role in energy, drive, muscle and libido. Dr. Sajad Zalzala teaches that when estrogen has already been addressed but these symptoms remain, it's worth looking at the other hormones instead of only adjusting estrogen.
Losing muscle can add to the tiredness. Losing Muscle After 40 explains the signs.
What it isn't
- It isn't laziness or a lack of willpower.
- It isn't always depression, though low mood should always be taken seriously and checked with a doctor.
- It isn't something to treat on your own. Hormone treatments should only be used with a doctor's guidance.
What to notice first
- How your drive, motivation and mood have changed over the past year.
- Whether exercise still builds strength and tone.
- Changes in libido. MedlinePlus covers sexual problems in women in a clear, straightforward way.
- Any hormone treatments you're already on.
Your takeaway and next step
Your takeaway: Feeling flat and unmotivated after menopause can have a hormonal side that's worth looking into, beyond estrogen alone.
Your next step: Write down the three changes that bother you most, and ask your doctor whether hormone testing makes sense for you.
When to talk to a doctor
See a healthcare professional if low mood lasts more than two weeks, or if you've lost interest in things you used to enjoy. If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, contact emergency services or a crisis line right away. In the U.S., you can call or text 988.
Want to keep learning?
For more education and discussion about hormones, motivation, and healthy aging, you're welcome in the free Optional Aging community on Skool. Join the free community
Not sure where to start? Take the free DriversPulse assessment to see which areas may be affecting how you feel. It's free, with no cost to you. Take the free DriversPulse assessment
Want a doctor to look at the whole picture? With Healthspan Radar, Dr. Sajad Zalzala personally reviews your health story and any labs you choose to share. See how Healthspan Radar works
Educational information only. This article does not diagnose any condition or replace care from your own doctor.
Written by Dr. Sajad Zalzala, physician and founder of Optional Aging.
