Adjustment disorder

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In psychology, adjustment disorder refers to a psychological disturbance that develops in response to a stressor. Adjustment disorders are caused by specific sources of stress, such as severe personal crisis (divorce, death of loved one, recent abuse, recent job changes) or major unexpected negative events (tornado or fire destroys a person's home). The usual symptoms mimic depression, anxiety, or sleep disorder; however the disturbance disorder is short-term and can usually be treated with counseling or mild short-term medication. If the problem persists more than six months after removal of the stressor, the person may have a more permanent problem, such as a genuine mood or sleep disorder.

[edit] Diagnostic Criteria for Adjustment Disorders

1. The development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor(s) occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor(s).
2. These symptoms or behaviors are clinically significant as evidenced by either of the following:
   1. marked distress that is in excess of what would be expected from exposure to the stressor
   2. significant impairment in social or occupational (academic) functioning
3. The stress-related disturbance does not meet the criteria for another specific Axis I disorder and is not merely an exacerbation of a preexisting Axis I or Axis II disorder.
4. The symptoms do not represent Bereavement.
5. Once the stressor (or its consequences) has terminated, the symptoms do not persist for more than an additional 6 months.

Specify if:

• Acute: if the disturbance lasts less than 6 months
• Chronic: if the disturbance lasts for 6 months or longer Adjustment Disorders are coded based on the subtype, which is selected according to the predominant symptoms.

[edit] External links

• mentalhealth.com site
• Mental Health Matters: Adjustment Disorders
• Psych Forums: Adjustment Disorder Forum
• Summary of clinical studies on depression