You should not be afraid to approach your healthcare provider regarding problems with depression, anxiety or stress. Today these problems are common and are recognised as disease states as much as any other medical condition.
Your healthcare provider will initially perform a physical examination to rule out conditions that can cause similar symptoms to depressive and anxious states. He/she may employ the use of blood tests and other tests to help in the elimination of other physical disorders.
Your psychological and accompanying physical symptoms should all be assessed along with your general health and a complete medical history. He/she may also ask about any alcohol or drug use.
A mental status examination may be suggested to further assess the severity of your condition.
| Stress There is no specific diagnostic test for stress since everyone reacts to stress differently. However, your healthcare provider should be able to identify any physical symptoms and other underlying problems. |
