What Are Adjustment Disorders?
Adjustment disorders are emotional responses to significant life changes or stressors that are more intense and prolonged than what is typically expected. While most individuals can adapt to life’s challenges over time, those with an adjustment disorder experience emotional reactions that can significantly impact their daily functioning and overall well-being.
Types of Adjustment Disorders
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), categorizes adjustment disorders into several types based on the predominant symptoms:
- Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety: Involves nervousness, worry, and fearfulness that are out of proportion to the situation.
- Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood: A combination of symptoms from both the anxiety and depressed mood categories.
- Adjustment Disorder with Disturbance of Conduct: Includes behaviors such as defiance, rule-breaking, and conflicts with authority.
- Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Disturbance of Emotions and Conduct: A combination of emotional symptoms and behavioral problems.
- Adjustment Disorder, Unspecified: When symptoms do not fit into the other categories but still cause significant distress or impairment.
Signs and Symptoms
Common signs of an adjustment disorder include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Decreased performance at work or school
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
If you or someone you know in the Lilburn, Tucker, Norcross, Snellville, Peachtree Corners, or Lawrenceville areas is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help.
Causes of Adjustment Disorders
Adjustment disorders can be triggered by various life events, including:
- Major life changes such as moving to a new city or starting a new job
- Relationship issues or conflicts
- Financial problems
- Health concerns or medical diagnoses
- Loss of a loved one
Even positive changes, like getting married or having a child, can lead to stress that may result in an adjustment disorder.
Treatment Options
Treatment for adjustment disorders often involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
Seeking Help in Our Community
If you’re in Lilburn, Tucker, Norcross, Snellville, Peachtree Corners, or Lawrenceville and struggling with an adjustment disorder, Alice’s Psychiatry and Wellness is here to support you. Led by Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Omoye Ehizuelen, the clinic offers personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. With both in-office and virtual appointments available, Alice’s Psychiatry and Wellness provides accessible and compassionate care to help you navigate life’s challenges.
Remember, seeking help is a courageous first step toward healing. You’re not alone, and support is available.
Omoye Ehizuelen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Omoye Ehizuelen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s from Georgia Southern University. She specializes in treating mental health and substance use disorders with compassion and a commitment to destigmatizing care.
Why Choose Us
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Consistent, personalized care with the same provider
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Virtual appointments for convenience and accessibility
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Tailored treatment plans including medication management
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Pharmacogenetic testing to guide medication choices
