Loading condition information
Conditions
Stress
Physical and emotional tension from demands or challenges. Chronic stress can affect health, sleep, and work performance.
Get support
From $24.95 · No appointment needed
6 min
avg cert turnaround
13 min
avg doctor review
2
days a week
30%
refund if declined
Symptoms
CommonsymptomsofStress
An AHPRA-registered doctor assesses these symptoms online - no in-person visit required.
Feeling overwhelmed
Irritability
Fatigue
Sleep problems
Headaches
Muscle tension
Difficulty concentrating
Our Scope
Howwecanhelp
InstantMed handles many common conditions entirely online. Here's what fits our service.
What we can help with
- Medical certificates for stress leave
- Discussion of stress management strategies
- Referral to psychologist or counsellor
- Advice on when to seek further support
What needs in-person care
- Ongoing psychological therapy
- WorkCover or compensation claims (may need specific forms)
Depending on your situation, an AHPRA-registered doctor may be able to issue a medical certificate or arrange a repeat prescription after reviewing your request online.
Clinical Guidance
Whentoseeadoctor
These indicators suggest you should seek professional medical advice promptly.
Signs you need a doctor
- 1Stress affecting work or relationships
- 2Physical symptoms (chest pain, etc.)
- 3Difficulty coping
- 4You need a mental health day or stress leave certificate
Seek emergency care if
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Severe chest pain
- Unable to function at all
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department
Clinical Insight
Adoctor'sperspectiveonStress
InstantMed Clinical Team
AHPRA-registered medical team · Reviewed 2026-03
Stress is not a diagnosis in itself, but chronic stress produces real physiological effects - elevated cortisol disrupts sleep, digestion, immune function, and cardiovascular health. When I assess someone for stress-related symptoms, I am looking at whether the stress is situational (a specific stressor like a work deadline, relationship breakdown, or financial pressure) or whether it has progressed to a clinical condition like anxiety disorder, depression, or adjustment disorder. The distinction matters because the treatment pathways differ. For acute situational stress, practical support - a mental health day, workplace modifications, or connecting with support services - may be sufficient. For chronic stress that has crossed into persistent anxiety or depression, a more structured approach involving therapy and potentially medication is warranted. I never dismiss stress as trivial - chronic stress is a risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and immune dysfunction.
Treatment
TreatingStress
Acute and chronic stress are primarily managed with non-pharmacological approaches. CBT and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have the strongest evidence. When stress produces persistent insomnia, low-dose melatonin is a safe first-line adjunct. If stress has progressed to clinical anxiety or depression (more than 2 weeks of persistent symptoms), SSRI therapy is appropriate and can be initiated via telehealth. A Medicare Mental Health Care Plan provides access to up to 10 subsidised psychology sessions per year.
Melatonin
Circadin, Slenyto, Melatonin SAS
Class:Melatonin receptor agonist / chronobiotic
Typical dose:0.5-2mg (OTC immediate-release) 30-60 minutes before bed; Circadin 2mg prolonged-release requires prescription for adults over 55
PBS:OTC up to 2mg without prescription since 2021 TGA change; Circadin PBS listed for circadian rhythm disorders in adults over 55
- Useful for stress-related sleep onset insomnia and circadian disruption
- Low dependence risk compared to sedative hypnotics (zopiclone, benzodiazepines)
- Best used short-term alongside stress management strategies
- Available from any pharmacy without a prescription in doses up to 2mg
Sertraline
Zoloft, Sertraline Sandoz
Class:Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Typical dose:25mg daily for 1-2 weeks, then 50mg daily; titrate to response up to 200mg
PBS:PBS listed for depression and anxiety disorders; $25.00 general / $7.70 concession (PBS, 2026)
- Appropriate when stress has progressed to clinical anxiety disorder or depression (persistent symptoms greater than 2 weeks)
- Not indicated for situational stress that will resolve when the stressor is removed
- Full effect takes 4-8 weeks; requires regular review in first 4 weeks
- A telehealth consult can assess whether pharmacotherapy is appropriate for your situation
Source: Therapeutic Guidelines -- Psychotropic, 2023; Australian Psychological Society stress management guidelines; National Mental Health Commission, Australia. This information is educational only and does not replace clinical assessment.
Specialist referral: Consult a GP for a Mental Health Care Plan to access CBT via a psychologist (first-line for stress). Refer to a psychologist if stress is affecting functioning at work or home for more than 2 weeks. Psychiatrist referral if symptoms progress to severe anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Stress in Australia
75% of Australians report that stress adversely affects their physical health (Australian Psychological Society)
Workplace stress costs Australian businesses an estimated $14.8 billion per year
35% of Australians report significant levels of distress in their lives
Only 1 in 3 Australians experiencing significant stress seek professional help
Recovery
Whattoexpect
Typical recovery timeline and return-to-work guidance for most patients.
Typical recovery
Acute stress: resolves within days to weeks once the stressor is removed or managed. Chronic stress: recovery takes weeks to months and requires active intervention - it rarely resolves on its own.
Return to work
For a stress-related mental health day, most people return the next day. If the workplace is a significant contributor, discussing modifications with your employer (or requesting a longer period off via your GP) may be necessary. Your employer cannot ask for details beyond a medical certificate.
When to reassess
See a doctor if stress is affecting your ability to function for more than 2 weeks, if you are experiencing persistent anxiety, insomnia, or low mood, if you are using alcohol or substances to cope, or if you are having thoughts of self-harm (Lifeline: 13 11 14).
Self-Care
ManagingStressathome
Evidence-based tips to support your recovery alongside medical treatment.
Identify your specific stressors and separate what you can control from what you cannot
Regular physical exercise is one of the most effective stress-reduction tools - even a daily 20-minute walk
Maintain social connections - isolation worsens stress, while talking to trusted people helps
Limit news and social media consumption - constant information intake increases cortisol
Prioritise sleep - aim for consistent sleep and wake times, even when stressed
Consider a Mental Health Care Plan through your GP - this provides 10 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions per year
FAQ
CommonquestionsaboutStress
Answers to the most common questions from patients.
Yes. Stress and burnout are valid reasons for a medical certificate. Our doctors can provide certificates for stress leave when appropriate.
Stress is a response to external demands. Anxiety is excessive worry that persists. They often overlap and can be treated similarly.
It depends on your situation. Doctors assess based on your needs. Initial certificates are often 1-3 days; longer periods may need follow-up.
Medical certificates typically don't specify the diagnosis. They state you're unfit for work. Your employer doesn't need to know the reason.
Ready to get help with Stress?
Australian-registered doctors review your request when available.
Full refund if the doctor declines.