Anxiety and Depression Lab Panel
Comprehensive panel testing thyroid function, stress hormones, vitamins, and inflammatory markers that may contribute to anxiety and depression symptoms.
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What this test measures
This comprehensive panel measures biomarkers that can mimic or worsen anxiety and depression symptoms, including thyroid disease, iron deficiency, anemia, low vitamin B12, low vitamin D, glucose abnormalities, and inflammatory markers. Anxiety causes the body to release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, and chronic anxiety can lead to long-term hormonal abnormalities detected in blood testing.
Depression can influence various blood test components and frequently causes nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B12 and D, which show up in blood tests. Glucose peaks and dips tug on mood, with fast drops triggering adrenaline and cortisol that can feel like anxiety, irritability, or brain fog, while chronic highs blunt dopamine signaling and inflame blood vessels. The panel evaluates these interconnected systems to help identify medical conditions that may be contributing to mood symptoms.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, worry, sadness, or depression who want to rule out underlying medical causes that may be contributing to their symptoms.
- Those who have mood symptoms alongside physical complaints such as fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, or difficulty concentrating that could indicate thyroid dysfunction or nutrient deficiencies.
- Patients with a family history of thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions, or diabetes who are experiencing new-onset anxiety or depression symptoms that could be related to these underlying conditions.
- Individuals whose anxiety or depression symptoms have not improved with standard treatments, or who have developed new mood symptoms after starting medications or experiencing significant life stressors.
- Those who want a comprehensive evaluation of their physical health as part of addressing mental health concerns, particularly if they prefer to explore potential medical contributors before or alongside psychological interventions.
What to expect
Preparation
Fast for 8-12 hours before your blood draw, with water permitted. Schedule your appointment in the morning (ideally between 7-9 AM) for optimal cortisol measurement. Avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol consumption for 24 hours before testing.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a standard needle and collection tubes. The process typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Collection
Check in at the laboratory location and present your test order. A phlebotomist will verify your identity, explain the procedure, and collect the blood sample in a private room.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 2-4 business days and will be delivered securely through your online portal with clear reference ranges and explanations.
Understanding your results
Results will show individual values for each test component with corresponding reference ranges. Anxiety disorders are diagnosed clinically, not by exclusion alone, and the real value of blood tests for anxiety is pattern recognition across time, not isolated flags on one report.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | TSH: 0.4-4.5 mIU/L | Higher values may indicate hypothyroidism |
| Adults | Cortisol (AM): 6-23 mcg/dL | Values vary by time of day |
| Adults | Vitamin B12: 200-900 pg/mL | Lower values may indicate deficiency |
| Adults | Vitamin D: 30-100 ng/mL | Values below 30 ng/mL suggest insufficiency |
| Adults | CRP: <3.0 mg/L | Higher values indicate inflammation |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Hypothyroidism, characterized by elevated TSH and low free T4 levels, slows down virtually every metabolic process in your body, leading to profound fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive sluggishness. Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies are frequent among depressed people, and blood tests can reveal these deficiencies which may lead to confusion with other medical issues. Low cortisol may suggest adrenal insufficiency, which can contribute to fatigue and mood symptoms.
What does a “High” result mean?
TSH below 0.1 mIU/L can create symptoms that feel like panic, while hyperthyroidism can cause fatigue through sustained metabolic overdrive that eventually leads to exhaustion and burnout. Chronic stress can increase inflammatory indicators like CRP, and even if illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease do not exist, test results may indicate them. Elevated cortisol may indicate chronic stress or other adrenal dysfunction that can worsen anxiety symptoms.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your test results are confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are not sent to your personal doctor unless you specifically request it, will not be added to your insurance medical records, and do not appear on insurance explanation of benefits statements.
Frequently asked questions
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CPT Code: 84443, 82533, 82607, 82306, 85025, 86140, 80053
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.