All You Need to Know About Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorder is a type of mental health condition that can occur when somebody experiences difficulty adjusting to a significant life change or stressor. This can lead to feelings of distress, anxiety, and depression that can negatively impact daily life and overall well-being. 

Stress can be brought on by a variety of life changes, including issues at work, moving away for education, becoming ill, losing a close relative, and many more. Most of the time, it takes a few months to adjust to such changes. However, if you have an adjustment disorder, you still exhibit responses that can heighten your feelings of anxiety or depression.

Adjustment disorder is characterised by symptoms such as distress, anxiety, and depression, but each of these conditions is different. Anxiety disorder is a broader category marked by persistent feelings of worry, fear, or unease, often without a specific trigger. Depression is a condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. 

To learn more about depression and anxiety, read: Anxiety 101: What You Need to Know About Anxiety Disorder 

Symptoms of Adjustment Disorder 

The symptoms of adjustment disorder can vary from person to person, but generally include feelings of distress, anxiety, and depression that persist for more than a few weeks after a significant life change or stressor has occurred. 

Other common symptoms include: 

• Difficulty sleeping

• Appetite changes 

• Irritability

• Difficulty concentrating

• Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness

While everyone experiences stress and difficulty adjusting to life changes at times, those with adjustment disorder experience these symptoms to a significantly greater degree and for an extended period of time.

Also read: Understanding Depression: Signs, Causes and Types

Causes of Adjustment Disorder 

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of adjustment disorder, including significant life changes or stressors such as:

• Death of a loved one, such as a family member or a pet 

• Relationship difficulties

• Health problems

• Job loss or change

• Financial difficulties

• Moving to a new home

• Starting or changing schools

• Moving countries

Some people may be more susceptible to adjustment disorder due to pre-existing mental health conditions, a history of trauma, or a family history of mental health issues.

Also read: What Is the Best Way to Treat Generalised Anxiety Disorder?

Treatment & Management 

A diagnosis of adjustment disorder is made by a mental health professional based on a thorough evaluation of an individual's symptoms, history, and circumstances. This may include a physical examination, a review of medical history, and a psychological evaluation.

Once a diagnosis has been made, there are several treatment options available for those with adjustment disorder. These include:

• Psychotherapy: This can include talk therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and other forms of therapy designed to help individuals manage their symptoms and develop healthy coping strategies.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as anxiety or depression.
• To learn more about psychiatric medication and how it can help anxiety and depression, read Psychiatric Medication: Everything You Need to Know. 
• Lifestyle changes: Making changes to one's lifestyle, such as improving sleep habits, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet, can help manage symptoms of adjustment disorder.
• Community Support: Joining a community with people going through similar experiences can provide a supportive environment where to share and discuss common experiences. 

Also read: 5 Tips to Deal With Depression

Join the Amaha Community for sharing your experiences, and for support from others with similar experiences. 

It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you are experiencing symptoms of adjustment disorder. With the right combination of treatment and support, you can successfully manage your symptoms and lead a healthy, fulfilling life. 

If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of adjustment disorder, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. We encourage you to consult a therapist or a psychiatrist to get support for managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being.