Adjustment Disorders

An adjustment disorder is a stress-related mental illness, where someone may have a hard time adjusting to life changes, and become anxious, depressed and possibly self-destructive. Symptoms of an adjustment disorder vary, but usually begin within three months of a stressful life event.

Emotional symptoms might include:

• Sadness
• Crying spells
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Lack of enjoyment (in activities or situations that used to bring joy or relaxation)
• Trouble sleeping

Behavioral symptoms might include:

• Avoiding family or friends
• Fighting
• Poor performance at school or work
• Reckless driving

Sometimes the symptoms disappear once the stress has eased, but if not, treatment can help individuals cope more successfully with stressful events.