Treatment:

The main goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and help the person return to a similar level of functioning as before the stressful event occurred.

Individual therapy can help the person:

• Get support
• Identify his or her abnormal responses to the stressor
• Maximize the use of his or her strengths

Most mental health professionals recommend some type of talk therapy to help the person identify or learn different responses to the stressors in their life. Types of therapy may include:

• Behavior therapy
• Individual psychotherapy
• Family therapy
• Self-help groups

When medications are used, they are usually in addition to other forms of treatment. Depending on the symptoms, these may include:

• Anti-anxiety medicines
• Antidepressant medicines
• Antipsychotic medicines (rarely)
• Stimulants (for patients who are very withdrawn)

Expectations (prognosis):

Adjustment disorders usually get better quickly without any remaining symptoms.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of adjustment disorder.