Adjustment Disorder

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Adjustment Disorder

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

An emotional or behavioral response to an identifiable stressor that is out of proportion to the stressor or causes significant impairment.

Overview

Adjustment disorder involves emotional or behavioral symptoms that develop within three months of an identifiable stressor, such as a job loss, relationship change, or health diagnosis, and are out of proportion to what would typically be expected.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include low mood, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and changes in behavior, causing distress or impairment beyond a typical stress response. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Adjustment disorder occurs in response to identifiable life stressors. Risk is associated with limited coping resources, concurrent stressors, and prior mental health history.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Supportive psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral approaches may help develop coping strategies for the stressor.

Living With Adjustment Disorder

Maintaining routine, problem-solving around the stressor, and leaning on social support can aid adjustment.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Emergency Situations

If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

Outlook

Symptoms typically resolve within six months once the stressor or its consequences have eased, though ongoing stressors can prolong symptoms.

Related Conditions

Acute Stress Disorder

A condition involving intense stress symptoms occurring within the first month after exposure to a traumatic event.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, involving intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood changes, and heightened arousal.

Major Depressive Disorder

A mood disorder involving persistent sadness or loss of interest that interferes with daily life for at least two weeks.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.