Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment Disorder & Anxiety
Adjustment disorder is a common psychological response to a significant life change, stressful event, or major transition. While it is normal to experience emotional distress following challenging circumstances, adjustment disorder occurs when the emotional or behavioural response becomes more intense than would typically be expected and begins to interfere with daily functioning.
Adjustment disorder can develop following a wide range of life events, including relationship breakdowns, workplace stress, job loss, health concerns, family conflict, relocation, becoming a parent, financial difficulties, or other significant changes. Individuals may experience symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, excessive worry, feeling overwhelmed, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep, or a reduced ability to cope with everyday demands.
Importantly, adjustment disorder is not considered a permanent condition. Unlike some mental health difficulties that may persist over long periods of time, adjustment disorder is directly linked to a specific stressor or life circumstance. With the support of a psychologist, you can process your experiences, strengthen your coping skills, and regain a sense of balance and confidence during this period of change. Symptoms often improve significantly over time with appropriate support.
Signs of Adjustment Disorder
Emotional distress: Feeling overwhelmed, tearful, sad, anxious, worried, or emotionally reactive following a significant life change or stressful event.
Difficulty coping with change: Struggling to adapt to new circumstances, feeling stuck, or finding it difficult to manage everyday responsibilities that previously felt manageable.
Increased stress and worry: Excessively thinking about the situation, feeling uncertain about the future, or experiencing ongoing worry that feels difficult to switch off.
Changes in mood and behaviour: Becoming more irritable, frustrated, withdrawn, or less interested in activities and relationships that were previously important.
Physical and cognitive symptoms: Experiencing fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or feeling mentally and physically drained.
Impact on daily functioning: Noticing that emotional distress is affecting work, study, relationships, motivation, or your ability to engage in day-to-day activities.
How can a Psychologist help?
Working with a qualified psychologist can help you navigate difficult life transitions and develop effective ways of coping with change. Therapy provides a supportive space to process emotions, make sense of your experiences, and build practical strategies to manage stress and uncertainty.
With appropriate support, many people find that they are able to adapt to challenging circumstances, regain confidence in their ability to cope, and move forward with greater resilience and emotional wellbeing.
If this resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are welcome to make an enquiry at any time to explore how Natalie may be able to support you.
You can complete the enquiry form below with any questions or details about your situation, and Natalie will get back to you to arrange a 15 minute phone call if needed, or to answer any questions you may have.
Alternatively, you can book directly through Halaxy at a time that suits you.
Get in Touch
Needing support with an adjustment in your life?
Enquire now and Natalie will get back to you as soon as possible.
Appointments are available in person in Camberwell or via Telehealth for your convenience.
You’re welcome to submit an enquiry form with any questions or concerns, and Natalie will respond to discuss how she may be able to support you or to arrange a suitable time to connect.
Alternatively, you can book directly through Halaxy below at a time that works for you.