End The Stigma: What is an adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorder is a common mental health diagnosis that is not very often brought to light or discussed. Adjustment disorders are stress-related conditions. An individual experiences more stress than would normally be expected in response to a stressful or unexpected event, and the stress causes significant problems in relationships, at work or at school. Adjustment disorder can affect anyone at any age, even children.

Problems at work, going away to college and leaving home, a chronic illness, death of a close family member, having a baby, getting a divorce, or any number of life changes can cause stress. Most of the time, people adjust to such changes within a few months. But if you have an adjustment disorder, you continue to have emotional or behavioral reactions that can contribute to feeling anxious or depressed.

Signs and symptoms of an adjustment disorder depend on the type of adjustment disorder and can vary from person to person. You experience more stress than would normally be expected in response to a stressful event, and the stress causes significant problems in your life.

Adjustment disorders affect how you feel and think about yourself and the world and may also affect your actions or behavior. Some examples include:

•Feeling sad, hopeless or not enjoying things you used to enjoy

•Frequent crying

•Worrying or feeling anxious, nervous, jittery or stressed out

•Trouble sleeping

•Lack of appetite

•Difficulty concentrating

•Feeling overwhelmed

•Difficulty functioning in daily activities

•Withdrawing from social supports

•Avoiding important things such as going to work or paying bills

•Suicidal thoughts or behavior

Symptoms of an adjustment disorder start within three months of a stressful event and last no longer than six months after the end of the stressful event. However, persistent or chronic adjustment disorders can continue for more than six months, especially if the stressor is ongoing, such as being unemployed. Adjustment disorders are caused by significant changes or stressors in your life. Genetics, your life experiences, and your temperament may increase your likelihood of developing an adjustment disorder.

There are no guaranteed ways to prevent adjustment disorders; however, developing healthy coping skills may help you during times of high stress. Also, being proactive helps. If you know that a stressful situation is coming up — such as a move or retirement , increase your healthy habits and engage your social supports in advance. Remind yourself that this is usually time-limited and that you can get through it.

Adjustment disorders are best managed if caught and treated early. Talk therapy is the main treatment. Since a situation or stress is what causes adjustment disorder, having someone to talk to that you trust and getting tools to help you cope with the situation can be very helpful.

When medications are needed, anti-anxiety medicines are the primary drugs used to treat adjustment disorder. Some providers may also try antidepressant medicines or sleep medications, since sleep is often disrupted. Adjustment disorder goes away over time when the stressor is removed or when you adapt to the situation. Usually any medical interventions are limited and once the situation has improved, so too will your symptoms.