Adjustment disorder

If you’re finding it difficult to cope after a major life change or stressful event, you’re not alone. It’s natural to need time to adjust, but for some people the feelings can become overwhelming and hard to manage. This is known as adjustment disorder.

At Priory, our expert clinicians are here to support you. Through evidence-based treatment, we can help you process what you’re going through and move forward with greater stability and hope for the future.

What is adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorder is a short-term mental health condition that happens when a major change or stressful life event leaves you feeling more overwhelmed than you might have expected. It’s more than everyday stress, and it can affect your daily life, relationships and overall sense of wellbeing.

These feelings usually begin within 3 months of the event and, with the right support, often improve over time. However, for some people difficulties can last longer, but with the right help, recovery is always possible and things can get better.

Types of adjustment disorder

Mental health professionals recognise a number of different types of adjustment disorder, usually depending on the main symptoms a person is experiencing:

• Adjustment disorder with depressed mood – sadness, hopelessness, tearfulness, loss of interest
• Adjustment disorder with anxiety – nervousness, worry, trouble concentrating, separation fears in children
• Adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood – a blend of low mood and anxiety
• Adjustment disorder with disturbed conduct – behavioural difficulties such as reckless behaviour, aggression or truancy in young people
• Adjustment disorder with mixed disturbance of emotions and conduct – a combination of mood symptoms and behaviour changes
• Unspecified adjustment disorder – symptoms that don’t fit the above but still cause significant distress

Causes and risk factors

Adjustment disorder can be triggered by almost any major change or stressful event. Common causes include:

• Divorce or relationship difficulties
• Job loss, career change or retirement
• Serious illness or health concerns
• Moving home or relocating
• Financial difficulties
• Bereavement or loss
• Traumatic experiences such as accidents or crime

Some people may be more vulnerable than others. Risk factors can include:

• Early life stress, such as bullying or family conflict
• A personal or family history of mental health conditions
• Limited social support
• Experiencing multiple stressful events at once

Whatever the cause, it’s important to remember that struggling during difficult times is not a sign of weakness and with the right support, things can start to feel more manageable.

How adjustment disorder is diagnosed

A mental health professional can help identify adjustment disorder by talking with you about your feelings and recent life events. They’ll look for signs such as:

• Symptoms beginning within 3 months of a stressful event
• A reaction that feels stronger than might usually be expected
• Difficulties at work, school or in relationships caused by these feelings
• Symptoms that aren’t better explained by another condition or by the natural grieving process

This process is about understanding what you’re going through, so you can get the right support and start feeling better.

Treatment for adjustment disorder at Priory

For many people, adjustment disorder improves with the right support. At Priory, we tailor treatment to your personal circumstances and needs. Options may include:

Talking therapies

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): helps you understand the links between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and develop healthier coping strategies
• Group therapy: offers support from others going through similar experiences, reducing isolation
• Family therapy: helps families understand the condition and support one another through challenges

Medication

Not everyone with adjustment disorder will need medication, but for some people it can be helpful, especially if your symptoms feel very intense or don’t ease with time. In these cases, medicines like antidepressants or anti-anxiety treatments may be offered.

If this is something that could support you, our clinicians will talk it through with you, making sure any treatment feels safe, supportive and right for your needs.

Self-help and coping strategies

Alongside professional support, there are also small everyday steps that can help you cope:

• Try to keep a regular routine where you can
• Reach out to trusted friends or family when you need support
• Practise relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, journaling or mindfulness
• Eat well, exercise regularly and get enough sleep
• Limit alcohol and avoid drugs

When to seek help

If you find that symptoms aren’t improving or are making it hard to cope with daily life, it’s important to seek professional support.

If you ever feel like you may act on suicidal thoughts or are in immediate danger, call 999, go to your nearest A&E, or contact Samaritans on 116 123. You don’t have to face this alone.

Why choose Priory?

• Nationwide network of hospitals and wellbeing centres
• Specialist clinicians with expertise in stress-related conditions
• Evidence-based therapies tailored to your situation
• Flexible treatment options, including outpatient and online therapy

We’re here to help you manage the challenges of adjustment disorder and support you towards a more balanced and hopeful future.

Start your treatment today

If you’re struggling to cope with a stressful life event, professional help can make all the difference.

Book a confidential mental health assessment with Priory today and take the first step towards feeling more in control.