Adjustment Disorder: Overview

Adjustment Disorder is a stress-induced mental health condition that arises when an individual struggles to cope with a significant life event or change. It is characterized by emotional or behavioral symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.

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Signs and Symptoms (DSM-5 Criteria)

1. Onset within 3 months of a specific stressor.

2. Emotional or Behavioral Symptoms: These include excessive sadness, anxiety, irritability, or social withdrawal.

3. Functional Impairment: Difficulty in school, work, or relationships.

4. Symptoms do not persist beyond 6 months after the stressor is resolved.

5. Symptoms cannot be better explained by another mental health condition or normal grief.

 

Link Between Relationship Issues and Adjustment Disorder

Relationships—whether familial, romantic, or professional—are a cornerstone of emotional well-being. When significant stress arises in relationships, it can trigger Adjustment Disorder, especially when an individual struggles to cope with the change or conflict.

 

How Relationship Issues Can Trigger Adjustment Disorder

1. Breakups or Divorces:

   • The end of a romantic relationship can evoke feelings of rejection, betrayal, and a loss of identity.

   • Example: Someone might feel hopeless or unable to move forward after a long-term relationship ends, leading to Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood.

2. Family Conflicts:

   • Constant arguments or strained relationships within families can create a toxic environment.

   • Example: A teenager facing parental pressure might develop Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood.

3. Workplace Relationship Conflicts:

   • Tension with colleagues or managers can lead to stress that spills into personal life, affecting mental health.

   • Example: Difficulty collaborating with a boss may result in Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety, impacting both work performance and self-esteem.

4. Infidelity or Trust Issues:

   • Discovering infidelity can cause intense emotional distress, leading to feelings of insecurity and anger.

   • Example: A person in this situation may experience Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Disturbance of Emotions and Conduct, exhibiting emotional outbursts and withdrawal.

5. Unrealistic Expectations in Relationships:

   • Being unable to meet societal, familial, or personal expectations can create immense pressure.

   • Example: A spouse unable to fulfill traditional roles might feel inadequate, leading to an Adjustment Disorder diagnosis.

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Case Studies Highlighting Relationship Impact

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Case 1: Riya (24 Years Old)

Scenario: Riya, a graphic designer, is struggling after a breakup. She isolates herself from friends and finds it hard to focus on work.

Symptoms:

• Hopelessness and constant crying.

• Avoiding social interactions to escape shared memories with her ex.

• Decreased creativity and productivity at work.

Impact:
Her adjustment disorder with depressed mood has led to emotional distress, impairing her social and professional life.

 

Case 2: Raj (32 Years Old)

Scenario: Raj faces workplace conflicts with his manager, leading to anxiety and self-doubt.

Symptoms:

• Frequent panic attacks and sleeplessness.

• Strained marital relationship due to irritability.

• Avoidance of work and colleagues.

Impact:
Raj’s adjustment disorder with anxiety is affecting both his career and personal relationships.

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Case 3: Mohit (13 Years Old)

Scenario:
Mohit, a 13-year-old, recently started avoiding school after facing consistent bullying from his classmates. His parents have observed significant changes in his mood and behavior over the past two months.

Symptoms:

• Irritability: Mohit frequently argues with his parents and shows an angry disposition over minor issues.

• School Avoidance: He complains of stomachaches or headaches to stay home and refuses to engage in discussions about school.

• Withdrawn Behavior: Mohit avoids interacting with his friends and no longer plays cricket, a hobby he once loved.

• Sleep Disturbances: He stays up late playing video games and has difficulty waking up in the morning.

• Declining Academic Performance: His grades have dropped, and his teachers report a lack of focus and engagement in class.

Impact:
The bullying has taken a toll on Mohit’s self-esteem, making him feel isolated and fearful. The ongoing school avoidance is affecting his academic progress, while the tension in family interactions is straining relationships at home.

 

Self-Help Tips

1. Acknowledge Emotions: Encourage open conversations about feelings without judgment. Journaling can help express emotions constructively.

2. Build Resilience: Practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing.

3. Create a Routine: Structure the day to include work, hobbies, and time for relaxation to reduce chaos.

4. Stay Connected: Foster supportive relationships with friends and family members.

5. Limit Screen Time: Replace excessive use of gadgets with activities that promote social interaction or physical activity.

6. Seek Support: Identify a trusted mentor or counselor to provide guidance and encouragement.

 

How Can SEVEE Help?

At SEVEE, we offer tailored solutions to address Adjustment Disorder for both children and adults, focusing on individual needs and circumstances.

1. Therapy for Mohit:

   • Child-Focused Counseling: Providing a safe and engaging space for Mohit to talk about his fears and frustrations.

   • Behavioral Interventions: Helping him address avoidance behaviors and build healthy coping mechanisms.

   • Bullying Support: Empowering him with confidence-building techniques and strategies to manage the impact of bullying.

2. Parent Guidance:

   • Educating parents on supporting their child’s emotional well-being.

   • Providing strategies to rebuild family harmony and trust.

3. Therapy for Adults:

   • CBT: Reframing negative thought patterns and promoting healthier emotional responses.

   • Solution-Focused Therapy: Helping individuals like Riya and Raj regain control of their lives and focus on actionable steps toward progress.

4. Culturally Sensitive Counseling: SEVEE therapists communicate in the client’s preferred language, understanding cultural nuances for deeper empathy and connection.

5. Accessible and Confidential Support: Sessions can be conducted online, ensuring privacy and convenience.

 

Take the First Step
Whether it's Mohit struggling with school avoidance or someone like Riya or Raj managing life’s challenges, SEVEE is here to help.

Visit www.sevee.care or call +91 9712777330 to book a session. Together, we can empower individuals to overcome their challenges and thrive emotionally and socially.