People turning to anabolic-androgenic steroids to build muscle or boost confidence often face hidden battles with depression and anxiety. A new Australian research highlights how these substances, commonly used for fitness goals, can worsen mental health issues among those seeking help for other drug problems. This underscores the urgent need for support services to address steroid-related risks alongside emotional wellbeing. The findings were published in Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy.
The study examined data from over 18,000 adults accessing alcohol and other drug treatment services across Australia between 2022 and 2025. Among them, around 521 reported using anabolic steroids, with most being men. Methamphetamine and alcohol emerged as the main concerns for many, but steroid use added layers of complexity to their health profiles.
Researchers found that higher levels of risky steroid use correlated strongly with elevated depression and anxiety symptoms. Those scoring moderate or high on steroid risk assessments were far more likely to report severe emotional distress. This connection suggests steroids might not just affect the body but also deepen feelings of hopelessness or nervousness.
Impulsivity traits played a key role too. Individuals prone to acting rashly under positive or negative emotions, or struggling to follow through on tasks, showed greater steroid-related risks. Younger users appeared particularly vulnerable, pointing to how age influences these patterns in mental health and steroid use.
The findings come from Lives Lived Well, a major non-governmental organisation providing treatment in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Services like these traditionally focus on substances like opioids or stimulants, yet steroid users often slip under the radar. Experts argue for better integration of mental health screening to spot these issues early.
Polysubstance use added to the challenges, with many combining steroids with other drugs for recovery or social reasons. This mix heightens physical dangers like heart problems while complicating treatment. The study stresses that ignoring steroid use in anxiety and depression cases could miss opportunities for effective care.
Global trends show anabolic steroid use rising, with about 3.3 per cent of people worldwide trying them non-medically. In Australia, cultural pressures around masculinity and attractiveness fuel this, yet services lag in responding. Tailored approaches could help by linking physical goals with psychological support.
The research calls for non-judgemental screening in drug services to uncover hidden steroid habits. By addressing impulsivity and emotional urgency, providers might reduce harms more effectively. This could prevent a cycle where distress drives use, and use fuels further mental strain.
The study reveals a gap in how drug treatment handles steroid users’ unique needs. With better awareness, services could offer holistic help, blending harm reduction with mental health strategies. This might encourage more people to seek assistance without fear of stigma