How to be diagnosed for anxiety disorder??

[Anjel]

I have been told that I am 'clnicially depressed' but I don't think that I am because I have no reason to be... However... after doing some research on Anxiety disorders I truly feel that this is my problem....not depression.  How does one get diagnosed?  Is there bloodwork or something that will show a chemical imbalance?? I don't want to go to my doctor and tell her what I have (don't want her to think I'm a nut) but I truly do believe this is my problem because I have about 90% of the symptoms of GAD and some OCD symptoms as well. How were YOU diagnosed with this disorder?

[studdmuffin]

tell your doctor that anxiety is more of a problem then depression. of course, they are more likely to still treat you with the same drugs, but it is still important for them to know what they're treating. it is also much better to see a psychiatrist so they can sort everything out a create a treatment plan that is best suited for your condition.
according to the DSM IV GAD occurs when it is chronic for at least six months. there is no blood test for it. they most likely will check for a thyroid problem though.
it's still best to go see a good psychiatrist who knows what questions to ask and can determine any other underlying psychiatric problems.

[tigerpaw]

I agree see a therapist/psychiatrist they are much better to help anxiety than a Family Dr or general practitioner

[ddiaz]

Re: I have been told that I am 'clnicially depressed' but I don't think that I am because I have no reason to be...

My dear, most people have no apparent "reason" to be depressed. That is part of what makes it dificult to understaqnd, there is no logical explanation. Its just something that the brain does and it isn't based on outside circumstances. If you are feeling unhappy and you aren't improving, its time to go to a professional that can explain whats happen to you.

Best of luck.

[savexourxship]

You are diagnosed based on your symptoms by a doctor.

[westiegirl]

I was diagnosed after seeing a psychiatrist, however, I've been told for years by my family and my husband that I have depression problems (really, it's anxiety, but I didn't realize that until after I started therapy and went to a psychiatrist).....
It wasn't until my marriage counselor said it seemed like to her I was severely depressed and I needed to get help that I finally went (not sure what led her to that conclusion - maybe the fact that I would break down into a crying mess in her office and not be able to tell her why!!!    )
I had heard it enough times from my family and now an outsider was telling me too... so I guess that was enough to convince me to seek out a psychiatrist! 

The psychiatrist will get a rundown on your history and will be trying to figure out if anxiety or depression is your primary symptom and will work from there. Medications to treat either will be similar but they can diagnose and put you on a treatment plan.

[Jitterbug32]

I have no reason to be depressed either, I have a wonderful husband, 3 fantastic kids whom I adore, a new house that I designed, no money worries, a successful business...I could go on and on about my blessings. But my curse? Depression.

I agree with the others, you need to be honest with your doctor, she won't think you are a nut, she deals with this every day. Oh, and my OCD symptoms flare up when I am very depressed or anxious, so you may be experiencing something similar.

J.