Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response

Adjustment disorder is a short-term condition that occurs when a person has great difficulty coping with, or adjusting to, a particular source of stress, such as a major life change, loss, or event.

The type of stress that can trigger an adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome varies depending on the person, but can include:

Ending of a relationship or marriage

Losing or changing job

Death of a loved one

Developing a serious illness (yourself or a loved one)

Being a victim of a crime

Having an accident

Undergoing a major life change (such as getting married, having a baby, or retiring from a job)

Living through a disaster, such as a fire, flood, or hurricane

How Do I Find Out if I Have an Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response Syndrome?

If you suspect you may have an adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome, see your doctor. If symptoms are present, your doctor may perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical and mental health history.

How Is an Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response Syndrome Treated?

Psychotherapy (a type of counselling) is the most common treatment for adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome. Therapy helps the person understand how the stressor has affected his or her life. It also helps the person develop better coping skills. Support groups can also be helpful by allowing the person to discuss his or her concerns and feelings with people who are coping with the same stress. In some cases, short-term medication may be used to help control anxiety symptoms or sleeping problems.

If you have symptoms of adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome, it is very important that you seek medical care. Adjustment disorders also can sometimes turn into major depressive episodes in people who are at risk for developing mood disorders. Plus, you may develop a substance abuse problem if you turn to alcohol or drugs to help you cope with stress and anxiety.

What Are the Symptoms of an Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response Syndrome?

An adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome can have a wide variety of symptoms that are changes from someone’s usual self, which may include:

Feeling of hopelessness

Sadness

Frequent crying

Anxiety (nervousness)

Worry

Headaches or stomachaches

Palpitations (an unpleasant sensation of irregular or forceful beating of the heart)

Withdrawal or isolation from people and social activities

A new pattern of absence from work or school

New and uncharacteristic dangerous or destructive behavior, such as fighting, reckless driving, and vandalism

Changes in appetite, either loss of appetite, or overeating

Problems sleeping

Feeling tired or without energy

Increase in the use of alcohol or other drugs

Symptoms in children and teens tend to be more behavioural in nature, such as skipping school, fighting, or acting out. Adults, on the other hand, tend to experience more emotional symptoms, such as sadness and anxiety.

Can an Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response Syndrome Be Prevented?

If you have symptoms of adjustment disorder/stress response syndrome, it is very important that you seek medical care. Adjustment disorders also can sometimes turn into major depressive episodes in people who are at risk for developing mood disorders. Plus, you may develop a substance abuse problem if you turn to alcohol or drugs to help you cope with stress and anxiety.