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What is Adjustment Disorder?

Adjustment disorder occurs when there is an excessive emotional or behavioural reaction to a stressful life event or major life change, lasting more than a month after the event. The disorder involves emotional distress and problems functioning greater than expected from the stressful situation. Symptoms include anxiety, depression, sadness, hopelessness, or lack of motivation.

Adjustment disorder is triggered by major life stressors like divorce, job loss, financial problems, illness, accidents, or the death of a loved one. The disorder interferes with relationships, work, and home responsibilities. About 5-20% of psychiatric outpatients are diagnosed with adjustment disorder. Symptoms tend to arise within three months of the inciting event.

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Causes and outcome

Adjustment disorder results from difficulty coping with and adapting to significant life changes. Those with fewer resources and inadequate social support are more vulnerable. Having poor coping skills or tendencies like avoidance or perfectionism also increases risk.

Most people with adjustment disorder fully recover within six months as they adapt to the new situation. However, some develop ongoing distress, relationship problems, or impaired productivity. About 10-15% of cases deteriorate into mental illnesses like anxiety disorder or depression. Proper treatment can aid healthy adjustment and prevent worse outcomes.

Treatments

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Treatment involves psychotherapy to process the transition, gain perspective, and develop coping strategies. Cognitive behavioural therapy can change unhealthy thought patterns. Family system therapy helps adjust to shifting roles and dynamics. Medications like antidepressants are generally unnecessary but may make a big difference in severe cases.
Developing effective coping skills and a healthy support system enables successful adaptation to life changes. With care and time, the disorder remits as the person adjusts to their new normal.