From the Guidelines
The diagnostic criteria for adjustment disorder include the development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor(s) occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor(s), with significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, as defined by symptoms such as low mood, tearfulness, or feelings of hopelessness, or anxiety, nervousness, worry, jitteriness, or separation anxiety. According to the most recent guideline evidence from the Journal of Clinical Oncology 1, adjustment disorders are characterized by emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor(s) occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor(s). The key diagnostic features include:
- Low mood, tearfulness, or feelings of hopelessness
- Anxiety, nervousness, worry, jitteriness, or separation anxiety
- Significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning These symptoms must be present in the context of an identifiable stressor and must not meet the criteria for another mental disorder, as noted in the guideline evidence 1. It is essential to distinguish adjustment disorders from other mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTS symptoms), which are characterized by unwanted upsetting memories, nightmares, flashbacks, and emotional distress after exposure to traumatic reminders, as described in the guideline evidence 1. In clinical practice, accurately diagnosing adjustment disorder is crucial to provide appropriate treatment and support, and to differentiate it from other conditions that may require different management approaches, as implied by the guideline evidence 1.
From the Research
Diagnostic Criteria for Adjustment Disorder
The diagnostic criteria for adjustment disorder are not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies discuss the treatment and management of adjustment disorder, which implies that it is a recognized psychiatric condition.
Key Characteristics of Adjustment Disorder
- Adjustment disorder is a common psychiatric disorder 2
- It is associated with a significant risk of suicide 3
- The condition requires therapeutic intervention 3
Treatment Approaches for Adjustment Disorder
- Psychotherapy seems indicated for mildly symptomatic adjustment disorder 3
- Pharmacotherapy, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or etifoxine, may be considered for adjustment disorder with severe symptoms 3
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used psychological therapy for adjustment disorder 2, 4, 5