Adjustment disorder is a fairly common but under discussed condition. Adjustment disorder statistics reveal information about circumstances that cause the condition and the populations it most often impacts.
Significant or major life events often require robust coping strategies and problem-solving skills. Feelings of stress or sadness are common for anyone adjusting to new circumstances. In some cases, however, an event may exceed a person’s ability to cope and can cause feelings of despair, helplessness or withdrawal from interests or hobbies. This experience is known as anadjustment disorder (AD).
Also referred to as “situational depression,” AD is a short-term, stress-related condition where an individual has difficulty coping with a considerable change in circumstances or life events. Although brief,AD factsshow that this period can be distressing and have a significant impact on well-being.
Prevalence of Adjustment Disorders
Adjustment disorder statisticsshow that prevalence rates fall between11–18%of those who attend primary care and may be higher or underdiagnosed in some groups. The onset of AD istypically linkedto stressful events, such as:
- The death of a loved one
- Health problems either in oneself or a loved one
- Financial concerns
- Moving
- Divorce
Although life changes are common to just about everyone, those affected by adjustment disorders react to these changes in a way that would be consideredabnormal. AD may be more prevalent in some individuals,including those with a severe illnessor a mental health condition. Due to its often short-term nature, adjustment disorders may be under-reported in the general population.
This Season, Give Yourself the Gift of a Fresh Start.
Whether you are struggling with addiction, mental health or both, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait— reach out today to take the first step toward taking control of your life.
Adjustment Disorders and Related Conditions
Stress and adjustment disordersare closely linked. Feeling unable to cope with stressful circumstances can lead to feelings of helplessness and desperation. These symptoms are similar to those characteristic ofanxietyordepression.Although adjustment disorder shares many symptoms with these conditions, it does not meet the duration or symptomatic criteria for a clinical diagnosis of either condition.
People with adjustment disorders mayturn to substance useas a way of seeking relief from their symptoms, which can lead to asubstance use disorder. People suffering froma serious illness, such ascancer patients, may also be at increased risk for adjustment disorder as they work to cope with the new reality of their health condition. The co-occurrence of adjustment disorders and other mental or physical health conditions can make dealing with the symptoms of AD even more difficult.
Adjustment Disorders and Suicide
Adjustment disorders and suicidal ideationare often linked.Research showsthat as high as a quarter of patients with AD may attempt suicide.Identification of symptoms, such as sadness, lethargy, withdrawal or disinterest can be extremely helpful in preventing suicide and directing individuals with AD tomedical or psychiatric treatment.
Adjustment Disorder Prognosis
Although thelength of adjustment disordercan vary, AD typically begins withinthree monthsof a stressor or major event and usually does not last longer than six months after the stressor is gone. Theprognosis for adjustment disorderis often positive following correct identification of AD and establishing a strategy to manage the stressor or reactions to the stressor. In circumstances where a stressor is ongoing, a person can experience recurrent episodes of AD that may require ongoing support.
Statistics on Treatment for Adjustment Disorders
Although transient, adjustment disorders can be intense and extremely disruptive to a person’s daily life, including sleep, work and personal relationships.Treatments for ADcan include a variety of strategies, depending on the severity and type of stressor. Treatment options may include:
- Medication
- Alternative stress management strategies, such as yoga or meditation
- Strategies to reduce or remove the stressor
- Behavioral techniques to manage stress
Some treatments for adjustment disorders may also help prevent recurrence of adjustment disorders in the future. Although stress is an unavoidable part of life, there are resources and treatment options available for those who experience extreme difficulty or distress in coping with major events. Seeking treatment or support can help individuals to work through a difficult period and allow them to manage the changes that life may bring.
If you have a substance use problem that co-occurs with a mental health condition, like adjustment disorder,contact The Recovery Village today. Representatives are available to discuss treatment options.
