What is adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorder is characterized by the emergence of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to identifiable stressors or life changes. These symptoms can manifest as anxiety, depression, or other forms of distress. Unlike chronic mental health conditions, adjustment disorders are typically temporary and arise during specific periods of transition, such as a divorce, job loss, or the birth of a child. The key aspect of this disorder is the relationship between the stressor and the subsequent symptoms, which makes it important to understand that these reactions are not simply an extension of pre-existing mental health issues but are directly linked to particular changes in a person's life situation.

This understanding of adjustment disorder highlights its temporary nature and its context, differentiating it from more permanent mental health conditions or lifelong disorders. The focus on specific life events makes it clear that these symptoms often improve as individuals adapt to their new circumstances or receive appropriate support.