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Major life changes, such as the death of a loved one, relationship changes or moving to a new city can cause stress. Most people adjust to changes within a few months. For some people however, coping with the sadness, hopelessness and stress that come with change become overwhelming.
Adjustment disorder or situational depression is a type of short term, stress-related mental illness that can occur in some people after experiencing a major life event.
The type of stress that can trigger adjustment disorder varies depending on the person, but can include:
Triggers of stress in teenagers and young adults may include:
Because no two people are alike in how they react to stress, there is no way to predict who may develop adjustment disorder. Those who do not cope with change or do not have a good support system may be at greater risk of developing adjustment disorder.
Symptoms of adjustment disorder are similar to depression. They may be severe enough to affect work, school or social life.
Signs include:
To be diagnosed with adjustment disorder, the symptoms:
Some people who have severe cases of adjustment disorder may have thoughts of suicide or make a suicide attempt.
After ruling out a physical ailment, your healthcare provider may refer you to a mental health assessment to find out about your behavior and symptoms.
In cognitive-behavioral therapy, individuals learn how to break out of the vicious cycle of negative thoughts. The therapist first assists the client in recognizing negative thoughts and feelings, and their effects. Then the therapist teaches the client how use negative thoughts as cue to change them into helpful thoughts and healthy actions.
Medications may be recommended. With the right help and support, clients with adjustment disorder improve quickly.
CHI Health Psychiatric Associates, with offices in Omaha and surrounding areas, has highly-trained mental health providers who can address the needs of those who suffer from an adjustment disorder. If you think you or a loved one may be suffering from an adjustment disorder, call (402) 717-HOPE.