Significant life changes like bereavement, divorce, and job loss can sometimes trigger adjustment disorder. At a1 Family Psychiatry in Lincoln, Nebraska, Ismatt Niazi, MD, and the rest of the dedicated team offer effective treatment for those with adjustment disorder. They have extensive experience helping patients of all ages adjust to disruptive changes and move on with their lives. Call a1 Family Psychiatry or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.
Adjustment disorder is a type of stress-related condition. It happens when someone has a hard time coping with a major life change or stressful event, like moving to a new place, parents separating, losing a loved one, or starting a new school.
The a1 Family Psychiatry team sees adjustment disorders in both children and adults who feel overwhelmed by such changes.
Everyone reacts to extreme stress differently, but some common signs of adjustment disorder include:
In children and teens, adjustment disorder might also show up as acting out or having more frequent emotional outbursts.
What makes adjustment disorder unique is the clear link to a specific stressor, with symptoms usually starting within three months of the stressful event.
Unlike depression or anxiety disorders that may last for years, adjustment disorder often improves when the person adapts or gets support.
To diagnose adjustment disorder, the a1 Family Psychiatry team takes time to talk with you (or your child) about recent changes in your life, how you’re feeling, and how those feelings affect your daily routines.
They listen carefully and ask questions to rule out other conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The good news is that adjustment disorder usually responds well to support and care. Treatment may include:
Talk therapy is critical to help manage stress and build healthy coping skills. Family therapy is also helpful, especially if a child is struggling and the family is also adjusting.
Medication might be helpful in some cases if symptoms like anxiety or sleep problems are severe.
The a1 Family Psychiatry team works with you to create a treatment plan fitting your needs. If feelings of stress, sadness, or anxiety aren’t going away, or they’re starting to affect your school, work, or relationships, they can help you adjust, heal, and feel more like yourself again.
To benefit from the team’s expertise in adjustment disorder, call a1 Family Psychiatry or use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation today. Appointments are available in person or online using secure telemedicine.