Most studies report about 1% of the population may have an adjustment disorder at any given time.
They must also be out of proportion for the persons culture and cannot represent normalbereavement.
The disturbance also must not meet criteria for another mental disorder (likedepressionoranxiety).
An adjustment disorder with anxiety is marked by nervousness, worrying, jitteriness, or separation anxiety.
Its not always clear why some individuals adjust to stressful circumstances more easily than others.
Diagnosis
There isnt a specific test used to diagnose adjustment disorders.
Instead, a physician or mental health professional will conduct an interview to assess your symptoms.
A physician may run routine tests to ensure your symptoms arent sparked by an underlying health issue.
A mental health professional may ask you to complete some forms or questionnaires so information can be gathered efficiently.
Treatment often consists of talk therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
Talk Therapy
Talk therapyis typically the preferred course of treatment for an adjustment disorder.
The key in of therapy used may depend on the therapists expertise and the individuals needs.
Family therapy may teach you the best way to support an individual who is experiencing an adjustment disorder.
Medication
Medication may be used to address depression or anxiety that accompanies an adjustment disorder.
Its likely that most people will experience an adjustment disorder at one point or another in their lives.
Its not a sign of weakness.
If youre struggling dont beat yourself up by thinking you should be doing better.
Instead, get proactive about taking care of yourself and seek professional help to support your efforts.
2012;47(11):1745-1752. doi:10.1007/s00127-012-0493-x
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5.
Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association; 2017.
