Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorders develop when stressful events provoke an abnormal reaction, leading to symptoms of depression or anxiety. Chima Asikaiwe, MD, and Cecilia Chanda, PMHNP, offer expert care for people with adjustment disorders at Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services in Garland, Texas. Talk therapy, supported by medication when necessary, helps most people recover from their condition in a few months. For effective, holistic adjustment disorder treatment in supportive surroundings, call the office today or book an appointment online.

What is an adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorders are conditions where you experience heightened and prolonged reactions to a stressful event. This stress causes significant problems at work and school and personal relationships.

Events that can trigger an adjustment disorder include:

• Leaving home
• Illness and pain
• Death of a loved one
• Changing location
• Relationship breakdowns
• Financial difficulties
• Difficulties with work or school

Any life change that causes stress could trigger an adjustment disorder. Most people adjust to these challenges within a few months, and their stress levels return to normal. However, if you have an adjustment disorder, your emotional and behavioral responses persist, contributing to feelings of depression and anxiety.

What symptoms do adjustment disorders cause?

Symptoms of adjustment disorders vary depending on the type of disorder you have and its effects on you. In general, adjustment disorders affect your feelings and thoughts about yourself and the wider world that can lead to:

• Sadness and hopelessness
• Not enjoying activities you usually love
• Frequently crying
• Feeling worried, anxious, nervous, and stressed
• Difficulties sleeping
• Reduced appetite
• Problems focusing
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Difficulty functioning in daily activities
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Avoiding going to work
• Avoiding everyday responsibilities, like paying bills
• Suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors

Adjustment disorder symptoms start within three months of the stressful experience. They often improve within six months, but some people suffer from persistent adjustment disorders that last over six months. This is more likely to occur if your stressor is ongoing, for example, losing your job and being unable to find another.

Without treatment, adjustment disorders can develop into severe psychiatric conditions like depression (major depressive disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, and substance abuse disorder.

How are adjustment disorders treated?

Psychotherapy is the primary treatment Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services uses for adjustment disorders. You might benefit from individual, group, or family therapy. Therapy provides emotional support and helps you return to your daily routine.

Your Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services therapist also helps you understand why you developed an adjustment disorder and teaches stress-management techniques and coping skills to prevent future events from triggering a relapse.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can also help if you have symptoms of depression or anxiety. Most patients find that their symptoms improve after a month or so, and they no longer need medication.

If you develop symptoms of an adjustment disorder, get help before the condition worsens. Call Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services today or book an appointment online.