Adjustment disorder is a short-term mental health condition that is triggered by any stressful event, such as job loss, divorce, or the death of a loved one, etc. It causes strong emotional and behavioral changes in the person that can include depression, social withdrawal, anxiety, insomnia, and heart palpitations.
Typically, it gets cured on its own after the stressful event passes. But that being said, "on its own" does not mean "without effort." Recovery usually requires a mix of time, support, and often professional guidance. If you notice the symptoms of adjustment disorder are worsening, you must contact the mental health online therapy and mental health services for quick recovery.
How Long Does Adjustment Disorder Usually Last?
According to the DSM-5, adjustment disorder symptoms begin within three months of a triggering stressor and generally resolve within six months once that stressor has ended. That is a relatively short window compared to conditions like major depressive disorder or PTSD.
However, when the stressor itself does not go away, such as a long illness, chronic financial stress, or an ongoing difficult marriage, symptoms can persist well beyond six months.
In short, adjustment disorder does not have to be a long-term condition. For most people, it resolves. But having a realistic treatment plan for adjustment disorder tends to shorten the duration of suffering considerably.
Is Adjustment Disorder a Permanent Disability?
Adjustment disorder may sometimes be recognized as a disability, especially if it seriously affects a person's ability to function over time. However, it is usually seen as a short-term reaction to stress, so each case is looked at on its own facts.
In some cases, adjustment disorder can be considered a disability. For example, if symptoms are severe enough to meaningfully limit your ability to work, study, or handle daily life, even though it is usually short-term.
Can Adjustment Disorder Turn Into Major Depression?
Yes, adjustment disorder can turn into major depression if you don't do something to treat it and the symptoms keep worsening. Early therapy (such as CBT), good sleep, regular routines, and social support can significantly reduce the chance that adjustment disorder worsens into major depression.
People who receive structured support, whether through therapy, medication, or a combination, are significantly less likely to progress toward a more entrenched depressive episode.
What Coping Strategies Help Manage Adjustment Disorder Symptoms?
When someone is going through adjustment disorder, the instinct is often to either push through alone or to assume that nothing can be done until the stressor passes. Neither of those is quite right.
The following are some practical ways to heal from adjustment disorder. These strategies do not eliminate what is causing stress, but they help regulate the emotional and physical impact of it.
Building a Routine Around Stability
Disrupted routines are both a cause and a symptom of adjustment disorder. When a major life change hits, daily structure tends to fall apart. When you re-establish even simple routines like consistent wake times, regular meals, and short walks, it can create a sense of predictability that helps regulate the nervous system.
Have Strong Social Connections
Isolation for long periods of time eats up the mental energy of even a healthy person. If you or your loved one has adjustment disorder issues, don't avoid social meetups. Staying socially engaged, even in low-key ways, acts as a buffer against deepening distress.
Challenging Unhelpful Thought Patterns
A helpful way to cope with adjustment disorder with low mood is to avoid thinking that a hard change will last forever, affect everything in your life, or define who you are. Therapy often focuses on gently questioning and correcting these thoughts. You can also learn to practice this on your own over time.
What Does Effective Treatment Actually Look Like?
Getting appropriate support for adjustment disorder is not complicated, but it does require being intentional. A well-structured approach typically includes:
- Psychotherapy is the first line. CBT, problem-solving therapy, and supportive counseling are all commonly used.
- Medication when appropriate. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications are a good option only when adjustment disorder with depressed mood is severe.
- Social and environmental support. Helping someone identify and strengthen their existing support network is another effective way to heal from adjustment disorder.
- Address the stressor directly. When possible, practical problem-solving around the source of stress can reduce the underlying pressure driving symptoms.
Get Specialized Adjustment Disorder Therapy From Boston Neurobehavioral Associates
Boston Neurobehavioral Associates offers individual therapy and psychiatric services for people suffering from adjustment disorder and other mental health issues.
Reach out to our expert mental health therapists today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.