A person may encounter situations, circumstances, and pressures in their life that require them to adapt and cope, such as the loss of a loved one or a major life change.
In these circumstances, the individual may be able to overcome them over time, but their psychological and emotional response may be more severe than normal, leading to the appearance of symptoms of adjustment disorder.
What is Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment disorder is a psychological condition that affects an individual when they find it difficult to adapt or cope with a stressful situation or major change.
It occurs as a result of an individual's emotional and behavioral response being more severe than normal, affecting their daily functioning and their social and professional life.
Adjustment disorder is not a personality weakness, but rather a psychological reaction that occurs when stressors exceed their ability to cope.
Causes of Adjustment Disorder
The causes of adjustment disorder vary from person to person, but the common factor remains exposure to a sudden change that is difficult to cope with. The most important causes include:
- Emotional separation.
- Loss of a loved one.
- Exposure to an accident or disaster.
- Work or school pressures.
- Sudden or chronic illness.
- Experiencing family or marital problems.
Symptoms of Adjustment Disorder
Symptoms of adjustment disorder begin to appear within the first three months after exposure to the stressful situation and vary from person to person. They include:
- Social isolation.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleep.
- Repeated episodes of crying and feelings of hopelessness.
- Persistent feelings of anxiety, sadness, and tension.
- Changes in appetite, whether increased or decreased.
- Headaches and stomach pain without an organic cause.
What are the types of adjustment disorder
There are several types of adjustment disorder that affect a person, including:
- Adjustment disorder with anxiety.
- Adjustment disorder with depression.
- Adjustment disorder not otherwise specified.
- Adjustment disorder with disturbed behavior.
- Adjustment disorder combined with anxiety and depression.
- Adjustment disorder mixed with emotion and behavior.
Methods of treating adjustment disorder
Treatment for adjustment disorder depends on the type and severity of symptoms and aims to help the person cope with the difficult situation, including:
- Medication.
- Psychotherapy.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy.
Are there complications of adjustment disorder
Yes, if adjustment disorder is not treated properly or diagnosed early, symptoms may develop and lead to the following complications:
- Increased risk of addiction.
- Suicidal ideation.
- Chronic anxiety and depression.
- Poor performance at work or school.
Tips for recovery from adjustment disorder
The following tips can help patients improve their psychological state and recover more quickly:
- Avoid self-flagellation and isolation.
- Remain repressed and accept their feelings.
- Regulate sleep and eat a healthy diet.
- Spend time with family and friends.
- Set small, achievable goals.
- Practice favorite hobbies and physical activities.
When should you see a doctor
A psychiatrist or psychologist should be consulted when symptoms become severe and persistent and negatively impact the patient's daily life and social relationships.
Or when the patient's desire to harm themselves increases, or suicidal thoughts appear, or if the person fails to cope with the pressures despite their efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adjustment Disorder
What are the negative effects of maladaptive behavior
Maladaptive behavior leads to psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings.
What is the difference between a behavioral disorder and an adjustment disorder
An adjustment disorder is a temporary reaction to stress or a difficult situation, while a behavioral disorder has more aggressive symptoms and appears in childhood.
Why is it difficult to adapt to change
Because people tend to fear the unknown, and therefore, facing any new situation causes stress and anxiety.
Article Summary
Adjustment disorder is a psychological condition that affects a person when they find it difficult to adapt to sudden change or significant psychological pressure, causing stress and anxiety.
Symptoms may develop into suicidal thoughts or self-harm, so it is important to visit a doctor or psychiatrist for treatment and to try to recover without complications.