Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment Disorder is a common and treatable condition that can occur when life throws a major change or stressful event your way. It’s more than just a rough patch—it's your mind and body’s response to being overwhelmed. In this Q&A, we explain what Adjustment Disorder is, what causes it, how it feels, and the ways Jehovah’s Behavioral Care can help you heal and regain balance.

Q: What is Adjustment Disorder?

A: Adjustment Disorder is a mental health condition that happens when someone has a tough time coping with a major life change or stressful event. This could be anything from losing a loved one to losing a job, going through a breakup, or even moving to a new place. It’s like your emotions and stress responses get a little overwhelmed, and your mind and body don’t quite bounce back the way they normally would.

Q: What can cause it?

A: A wide variety of life stressors can trigger Adjustment Disorder. Some common ones include:

• The death of a loved one
• Divorce or relationship problems
• Serious illness or medical news
• Losing a job or switching careers
• Moving to a new place or going through a big life change

Keep in mind, it’s not just about the event itself—it’s also about how someone experiences it. What’s overwhelming for one person might not be for another, and that’s totally valid.

Q: What does it feel like?

A: The symptoms can vary, but people with Adjustment Disorder often feel:

• Sad, hopeless, or tearful
• Anxious, restless, or constantly on edge
• Irritable or easily frustrated
• Trouble sleeping or eating
• Difficulty concentrating
• A strong desire to withdraw from others or avoid responsibilities
• In more serious cases, thoughts of self-harm or feeling like life isn’t worth living

These feelings usually show up within three months of the stressful event and often go away once the situation improves or with the right support.

Q: How is it diagnosed?

A: A mental health professional, like a therapist or psychiatrist, will talk with you to understand what you’re going through. They'll ask about:

• What kind of stress you’ve experienced
• How you’ve been feeling and behaving since it happened
• Whether another mental health condition might be playing a role

They use a guide called the DSM-5 to help make the diagnosis.

Q: How is it treated?

A: The good news is that Adjustment Disorder is very treatable. Here’s what typically helps:

1. Therapy

Talking to a therapist is often the most effective treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is especially helpful—it focuses on managing negative thoughts, improving coping skills, and building resilience.

2. Medication

If symptoms like anxiety or depression are intense, a doctor might prescribe short-term medication to help balance things out. These could include antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds.

3. Lifestyle Support

Things like regular exercise, eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying connected with people you trust can make a big difference. Mindfulness, journaling, and other stress-reducing activities can also help.

Q: What’s the outlook?

A: With the right support, most people start to feel much better within a few months. If left untreated, though, Adjustment Disorder can lead to longer-term emotional issues like depression or anxiety—so it’s important to reach out for help when you need it.