Definition of Adjustment disorder
Adjustment disorder is an emotional and behavioral reaction that develops within 3 months of a life stress, and which is stronger or greater than what would be expected for the type of event that occurred.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Adults often develop adjustment disorder due to marital or financial problems.
Symptoms
For a diagnosis of adjustment disorder, a person’s symptoms must be severe enough to affect his or her work or social life. Some of the symptoms include:
Signs and tests
The following criteria need to be met to establish a diagnosis:
Treatment
The main goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and help the person return to a similar level of functioning as before the stressful event occurred.
Expectations (prognosis)
Adjustment disorders usually get better quickly without any remaining symptoms.
Review
Fred K. Berger, MD, Addiction and Forensic Psychiatrist, Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 2/14/2010
