Adjustment Disorder

Management and Resources

At home

When people are distressed, it is extremely difficult to make changes to their behavior. In fact, getting out of bed might feel daunting. Even so, small tweaks to the daily routine can accelerate recovery. Behavioral changes, when added to therapy, can be a powerful combination.

Try to get some regular exercise. While many people are aware of the vast, proven benefits of diet and exercise, taking these steps can be particularly difficult when a person is in a distressed state. However, the body needs movement, sunshine, and nutritious foods (especially vegetables and fruits). We recommend starting small. Eat one vegetable or fruit per day. Walk one lap around the block. Tiny change, over time, can make a real difference.

Avoid alcohol and non-prescribed drugs. Alcohol is a depressant, and although it may initially give a person a life, it eventually leads to a negative mood state. Smoking also increases stress, depression, and anxiety.

Keeping a log of stress triggers and other symptoms and showing them to a therapist can be beneficial.

At work

Experiencing trauma triggers can be distracting and disrupt focus and productivity at work. Time off work may be needed to attend therapy sessions. The ability to function normally, both socially and occupationally, may be affected.

It is important to remember that getting treatment might make one's work feel more manageable. In the meantime, there are a couple ways individuals can move forward:

Check with the human resources person or team at their company to find out whether they have an employee assistance program or partner that offers mental health services. This is a benefit many organizations have begun to offer.
Give oneself grace when feeling anxious or depressed, and realize that everyone needs a break every so often or perhaps a day off in order to maintain their spirits. While taking breaks can seem disruptive, this strategy may be effective in protecting one's well-being and providing perspective.
Individuals do not need to tell anyone at work about their Adjustment Disorder, nor do they need to keep it a secret. The amount of information shared is a personal choice though some people find it useful to share that they are having a rough patch with a colleague or supervisor.
Find support. Having a friend can lend many benefits. Gaining the support of friends, family, and even online support groups can be a powerful way to listen to each other and share one's stories in a confidential and dignified way.

At school

Adjustment Disorder can affect all parts of one’s life, including life at school when individuals are furthering their education as adults.

Many Colleges offer student counseling services. Given the abundance of stress related to exams and school performance, it is common to feel overwhelmed, depressed, and in need of support. Reach out to a dean or student services for information if needed.

For some with Adjustment Disorder, it may help to recall that everyone goes through difficult patches at some point or another.

Organizations & resources