This invention generally pertains to the field of psychiatry. In particular,this invention pertains to the discovery that agents which inhibit the bindingof cortisol to its receptors can be used in methods for treating stressdisorders. Mifepristone, a potent specific glucocorticoid receptor antagonist,can be used in these methods. The invention also provides a kit for treatingstress disorders in a human including a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist andinstructional material teaching the indications, dosage and schedule ofadministration of the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist.