Men change in their 40s due to a combination of gradual testosterone decline (andropause), psychological factors like a midlife reassessment, and lifestyle/environmental stressors, leading to shifts in energy, mood (fatigue, irritability), physical strength, sex drive, and a re-evaluation of life's purpose and achievements, often prompting significant personal or career changes.
When men reach the age of 40, they undergo a decrease in testosterone levels, which has an effect on various bodily functions, including muscle growth, metabolic rates, bone strength and sexual desire. All of this means that they have entered their “golden years”.
Andropause refers to a gradual decline in hormones, especially testosterone, that typically starts around age 40. Yet unlike female menopause, which has a definite end, andropause is a slow and steady ongoing process.
Some men will begin to make changes earlier than age 30, but typically most younger men begin to let go of their immaturity and short-term thinking from their early thirties onwards. There are many reasons why men change after age 30, but often it comes down to wanting a better quality of life.
Specific Signs/Symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency (TD)
Ejaculation results in changes in prolactin (increase) and dopamine (temporary decrease), but does not result in changes in testosterone. Although prolactin and dopamine are both involved with testosterone, they do not appear to influence testosterone levels acutely.
For many men, especially those in their 40s and beyond, fatigue stems from the pressures of daily life. Work stress, financial responsibilities, family commitments, and trying to stay healthy can all take a toll. One major culprit is poor sleep quality.
The study results showed that male attractiveness and masculinity remained fairly consistent until around age 50, after which attractiveness scores began to drop.
Most men who reach this age will start to feel depressed wondering if their best days are over. Read More: Your body will change, and you'll notice it becomes a little more fragile, have a little less energy and a bit of difficulty to stay in shape. You'll also see your social life, and priorities will shift.
Adulthood prime (maximal performance age) begins when growth in height terminates or the velocity slows to an almost imperceptible rate. For women this occurs, on average, by 18-20 years and for men the typical ages are 20-23 years. The Prime adult years continue until about age 30-35 years in both sexes.
That doesn't mean you're in decline, but your approach to health needs to evolve. Common issues that tend to surface for men in their 40s include increased belly fat, joint stiffness, sleep disruptions, and occasional mood changes. Aging can mean a gradual decrease in testosterone or a slightly slower metabolism.
A midlife crisis is a term used to describe a period of emotional or psychological uncertainty that often occurs during middle age, typically between the ages of 40 and 60. For men, this phase can bring on feelings of restlessness, self-doubt, and confusion as they question the direction of their lives.
Instead of viewing midlife as a loss, turning 40 can be seen as a period of growth and renewal. Aging can enhance emotional resilience and well-being. Midlife often brings a desire to strengthen social ties and give back. Lifelong learning and pursuing personal interests keep life dynamic and engaging.
The biggest red flags in a guy include controlling behavior, excessive jealousy, manipulation (like gaslighting), lack of empathy, and anger management issues, often seen through verbal abuse, aggression, or emotional outbursts, all indicating deeper emotional instability and poor communication. Other significant signs are disrespect, constant criticism, dishonesty, refusing emotional intimacy, blame-shifting, and a pattern of love bombing followed by devaluation, suggesting an unhealthy dynamic.
The age range of 22 to 32 years is often the most challenging period for any man. The pressure to achieve something significant and to establish oneself is overwhelming. When you look around, it seems like everyone is making progress, living the life you can only dream of.
Some men develop depression, loss of sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and other physical and emotional symptoms when they reach their late 40s to early 50s. Other symptoms common in men this age are: mood swings and irritability.
A man in middle age wants and deserves respect. He also needs someone who can take care of themselves. He needs someone who will call him out on mistakes but with love and understanding. He needs time to himself and to be made a priority.
Saying “No” Is Self-Care, Not Selfish
By the time I hit 40, I learned that saying “no” is not about shutting people out — it's about protecting your energy. Not every opportunity is worth your time and not every favour deserves your yes. Learn to prioritize your own needs without guilt.
Skin becomes loose and sagging, bones lose their mass, and muscles lose their strength as a result of time spent living life. Most people begin to notice a shift in the appearance of their face around their 40's and 50's, with some also noticing a change in their 30's.
Women respond to the full package, not just a face, and by the late 30s that full package is at its highest overall value. So 38 is the peak of total male desirability.
As a man passes over the 40-year mark and falls head-first into middle age, he can begin to experience changes in his physical and mental condition that he didn't experience in his younger years.
Butts and wide hips symbolize femininity, which makes sense why men are so attracted to them. A nice butt is also a good indicator that a woman works out and takes care of herself. Most men prefer butts over breasts, but that just boils down to personal preference. And to keep it real, men aren't all that picky.
Symptoms
Scientists' research on the relationship between age and the required amount of sleep per day shows that at the age of 40, people need about 7-9 hours of sleep per day. Age not only affects the health and function of the body's organ systems, but also affects the quality of sleep.
Below are common symptoms of a midlife crisis in men and women: