ADJUSTMENT DISORDER

ADJUSTMENT DISORDER

     Sometimes referred to as situational depression, is an abnormal and excessive reaction to an identifiable life stressor. The reaction is more severe than would normally be expected and can result in significant impairment in social, occupational, or academic functioning.

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA

A.      Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to recognizable Stress-causing stressors begins within 3 months.

B.      These symptoms or behaviors are medically important, as evidenced by one or both.

1.        Marked anxiety that is out of proportion to the intensity or intensity of the stress, considering external contexts and cultural factors that may affect symptoms intensity and presentation.

2.        Significant defects in social, professional, or other important areas of work.

C.      Stress anxiety does not meet the criteria for any other mental illness and it's not just a current mental disorder.

D.      The symptoms do not represent normal bereavement

E.       Once the stressor or its consequences have terminated, the symptoms do not persist for more than an additional 6 months.

Development and Course:

·         By definition, adjustment begins within 3 months of the onset of the disorder. The disturbance lasts no longer than 6 months after stressor is stopped( ceased).

·         If stress is a acute event (such as dismissal from job), the onset of anxiety is usually immediate (i.e. within a few days) and the duration is relatively not more than a few months.

·         If stress or its consequences persist, Adjustment disorder may be present and may become permanent.

Risk and Prognostic Factors

People with disabilities have a higher level of experience. There is a risk of increasing stress rates and adjustment disorders.

Etiology

1.      Genetics, your life experiences, and your temperament may increase your likelihood of developing an adjustment disorder.

2.      Different Life stressors

Adjustment disorder is caused by one or more life stressors. In adults, these stressors are most commonly related to marital discord, finances, or work. In adolescents, common stressors include school problems, family or parents' marital problems, or issues around sexuality. Other types of stressors include the death of a loved one, life changes, unexpected catastrophes, and medical conditions (such as cancer) and their subsequent treatments.

Factors that influence how well a person reacts to stress may include economic conditions, as well as the availability of social supports and occupational and recreational opportunities. Factors leading an individual to be more susceptible to stressors include social skills, intelligence, genetics, and mastery of existing coping strategies.