Mercy Options Adjustment Disorder Myths Mental illness is not: Hopeless Something to fear Untreatable Something you have to justify to others A personal deficit Weakness Failure Something to be ashamed about Something you have to go through alone
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What is Adjustment Disorder? We all suffer stressful events in our lives. Many of us have experienced an unusually traumatic event. These events can be natural disasters, like tornados and hurricanes, a crisis, like a car accident or learning we have a major medical disorder, or a personal problem, like a divorce, financial problems or domestic violence. Most of us weather these storms as best we can and eventually learn to deal with the results of the events. However, some people develop ongoing emotional or behavioral symptoms and show marked distress or an inability to function normally at home, at work or at school. If these symptoms persist for less than six months after the event, the person is considered to have adjustment disorder. When symptoms last more than six months, an anxiety or mood disorder may be the culprit. An exception to this six-month rule occurs with chronic stressors, like ongoing domestic abuse or illness. In this case, symptoms could persist as long as the abuse or illness persists. Adjustment disorder is quite common and affects men and women equally. It can occur at any age. People are particularly vulnerable during normal life transition stages like adolescence, mid-life and late life.
Symptoms Common symptoms of adjustment disorder can include: • Marked distress in excess of what would be expected • Decreased performance at or missing work or school • Temporary changes in social relationships • A depressed mood, with tearfulness and a feeling of hopelessness • Nervousness, perhaps being worried or jittery • Acting out against social norms and rules • Physical complaints • Social withdrawal Since these symptoms can signal a variety of mental health problems, a visit to your mental health provider is needed to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treatment of Adjustment Disorder Therapy can be very helpful to alleviate symptoms before they become disabling. Medication might be suggested to help ease the depression and anxiety often associated with adjustment disorder.
Steps to Help Yourself Do your best to remain active – Choose an activity you enjoy and make it part of your regular routine.
Avoid being alone too much – Seek out family and friends you can talk to and who will listen.
Do not set difficult goals or take on added responsibility – Break larger tasks into smaller ones that you can accomplish.
Avoid making major life decisions – Try taking it one day at a time.
Go easy on yourself – Don’t expect too much, too fast. Treat yourself with kindness and respect.
Follow your doctor’s orders – Take your medication as prescribed, eat right and keep your appointments.