Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, and along the way, we go through numerous challenging transitions. While many of us learn to adapt and cope with these changes, some people find it difficult to deal with the emotional distress brought upon by an ever-changing life. This is where adjustment disorders come into play.
Adjustment disorder, also known as situational depression or stress response syndrome, is a mental health condition that causes an individual to exhibit significant emotional or behavioural responses to a specific life stressor.
Understanding Adjustment Disorders
It is important to be aware of this cluster of mental health issues. It was highlighted in a study conducted by researchers from the University of Melbourne that decades of uncertainty surround adjustment disorders despite credible research that indicates that this disorder is quite prevalent.
Adjustment Disorders can be brought on by major life events that are often not anticipated, especially those that disrupt one's sense of stability and routine:
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- Divorce or relationship issues
- Job loss or career changes
- Workplace Conflicts
- Feeling betrayed by a loved one
- Relocation to a new city or country
- Health issues or a medical diagnosis
- Loss of a loved one
- Financial problems
Symptoms of Adjustment Disorders
The symptoms of adjustment disorders can manifest in various ways, depending on the individual and the stressful event that triggered adjustment disorder. Common symptoms of this rampant mental disorder include:
- Depressed mood that seems inescapable.
- Anxiety due to excessive worrying, nervousness, or restlessness.
- Avoiding responsibilities, withdrawing from social activities, or generally behaving recklessly, like you couldn't care less.
- Headaches, stomachaches, and other unexplained physical complaints.
- Insomnia or oversleeping.
- Trouble focusing on tasks, making decisions, or remembering things.
Adjustment Disorders Treatment
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an adjustment disorder, do not think twice in seeking help from a mental health specialist. The sooner you get a diagnosis, the faster you can get the right treatment to escape out of the clutches of Adjustment Disorder.
Remember, there is no shame in leaning on friends and family for emotional support. Sharing your feelings and experiences with loved ones can be therapeutic, and will alleviate the burden off your shoulders.
Also, make it a point to prioritise self-care. Indulge in practices like exercising, eating a balanced diet, and getting adequate sleep to improve your overall well-being, and aid your recovery from adjustment disorders.
In conclusion, do not forget that seeking help is a sign of strength, and with the right resources and coping strategies, you can navigate these transitions and emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. Change is the only constant, and you might as well get used to it!