A Guide to Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorder is a mental health condition that can affect anyone experiencing a significant life change or stress. It’s important to understand what adjustment disorder is, how it’s diagnosed and how it differs from other mental health conditions like PTSD. This guide will cover the symptoms, types and treatments available for adjustment disorder.

What Is an Adjustment Disorder?

Adjustment disorder occurs when someone has difficulty coping with or adjusting to a particular source of stress, such as a major life change, loss or event. Unlike other mental health disorders, adjustment disorder is typically short-term, with symptoms appearing within three months of the stressful event and lasting no longer than six months after the stressor or its consequences have ended.

Symptoms of adjustment disorder

The symptoms of adjustment disorder can vary significantly from person to person. They may include:

• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness or being overwhelmed
• Frequent crying
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Withdrawal from social activities and relationships
• Changes in appetite
• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches

These symptoms can interfere with daily life, making it difficult to function at work, school or in social situations.

Types of Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorder is categorized into several types, depending on the predominant symptoms:

Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

This type involves symptoms like persistent sadness, tearfulness and a sense of hopelessness.

Adjustment disorder with anxiety

Symptoms include excessive worry, nervousness and feelings of being overwhelmed.

Adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood

This type includes a combination of depression and anxiety symptoms.

Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct

Individuals may exhibit behaviors such as skipping school, vandalism or other forms of antisocial behavior.

Adjustment disorder with mixed disturbance of emotions and conduct

This type combines emotional symptoms (such as depression and anxiety) with behavioral issues.

Adjustment disorder unspecified

This category is used for symptoms that don’t fit into the other categories, such as physical complaints or social withdrawal.

Adjustment Disorder vs. PTSD

Understanding the difference between adjustment disorder and PTSD is crucial, as they have different causes and treatments.

Causes

Adjustment disorder is triggered by a specific stressor or life change, whereas PTSD is caused by exposure to a traumatic event, such as war, assault or a natural disaster.

Symptoms duration

While adjustment disorder symptoms usually resolve within six months, PTSD symptoms can last much longer and may not appear until months or years after the traumatic event.

Symptom nature

PTSD symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, which are not typically present in adjustment disorder.

Adjustment Disorder Diagnosis

A mental health professional can diagnose adjustment disorder by evaluating your symptoms and how they relate to a recent stressor. They will:

• Conduct a thorough interview to understand your emotional and behavioral symptoms.
• Assess your medical and psychiatric history.
• Consider the context of your stressor and its impact on your daily life.

Diagnosis is essential for distinguishing adjustment disorder from other mental health conditions, such as PTSD or major depressive disorder.

Adjustment Disorder Treatment

Treatment for adjustment disorder focuses on reducing symptoms and helping you develop coping strategies. It typically involves:

Psychotherapy

Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy is the most common treatment for adjustment disorder. It can help you.

• Understand and manage your emotions and responses to stress.
• Develop coping skills for dealing with stressors.
• Improve problem-solving and communication skills.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Medications

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as anxiety or depression. These may include:

• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications

Medication is usually a short-term solution alongside therapy.

Support groups

Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding as you navigate through your adjustment disorder. Sharing experiences and strategies with others facing similar challenges can be incredibly beneficial.

Lifestyle changes

Incorporating healthy lifestyle changes can support your mental health and overall well-being. Consider:

• Regular physical activity
• A balanced diet
• Adequate sleep
• Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga

Coping Strategies for Adjustment Disorder

Here are some additional tips for coping with adjustment disorder:

Build a support network

Reach out to friends, family or mental health professionals for support. Having a strong support network can help you navigate stressful times.

Practice stress-reduction techniques

Engage in activities that help reduce stress, such as deep breathing exercises, journaling or listening to music.

Set realistic goals

Break down tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals to help you feel in control and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

Take breaks

Give yourself permission to take breaks and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Outpatient Mental Health Treatment

Adjustment disorder can be challenging, but understanding its symptoms, types and treatments can empower you to seek the help you need. With the right support and coping strategies, you can overcome the difficulties associated with adjustment disorder and regain your sense of balance and well-being.

If you are looking for mental health treatment, Thousand Branches Wellness provides outpatient mental health support for people just like you. Visit our website to learn more about or call us today at 877-829-2923 to get started on your journey to better mental health.