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Health TopicsMental HealthStress
question

How is stress diagnosed?

HealthyWomen
HealthyWomen
answer
There is no specific test to diagnose stress. Typically, your healthcare professional conducts a variety of tests (which may include a personal and family health history, blood and urine tests and other assessments) to rule out various medical conditions. 

Because your symptoms may be similar to those of depression, your healthcare professional should also evaluate your mental state to determine if you may be suffering from a depressive or anxiety disorder. Symptoms associated with stress, anxiety and sleeplessness, for example, typically subside when the stress triggering them subsides. When these same symptoms are caused by depression or another mood disorder, however, they may not go away without medication or therapy.

If stress is identified as the culprit for your symptoms, you may want to ask your healthcare professional for stress management strategies and consider ways to control the stressors in your life -- before your health is affected.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.