Quick Links
What are Adjustment Disorders?
Adjustment disorders are mental health conditions that are characterized by a strong emotional reaction to stressful events or trauma. They typically involve negative thoughts, strong emotions, and certain changes in behavior. The reaction is much more intense than would typically be expected and can cause problems at work, school, or in relationships. From losing a job to a divorce to an illness, there are a number of changes that can cause this stress and lead to these intense responses.
Patients with these disorders may cry easily, act impulsively, or feel depressed or anxious. The behaviors and feelings can differ greatly from person to person and typically occur within three months of the change. Symptoms typically lessen after six months.
Patient
Testimonial
“I cannot recommend Dr. Colleen McGuire highly enough. She has been an incredible support in helping me manage my mental health, and her care has truly been life-changing. From the very beginning, she created a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where I felt heard, valued, and understood.”
Symptoms of Adjustment Disorders
The symptoms of adjustment disorders can vary greatly depending on the type of adjustment disorder you’re struggling with and the stressful event in question. The major symptom is reacting in a way that others would not expect in response to a stressor.
Some other symptoms you may experience include:
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Crying often
- Feeling anxious or nervous
- Insomnia
- Not eating enough
- Having difficulty with daily activities.
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Not doing important things
- Thinking about suicide
Risk Factors for Adjustment Disorders
Adjustment disorders are common in children and adolescents, but they can carry over into adulthood as well. They can also develop in anyone. They do not discriminate.
Whether you develop an adjustment disorder or not can depend on a variety of factors. Some of the risk factors associated with adjustment disorders include experiencing stressful life events and experiences, going through more than one major change at the same time, and having a life-threatening experience.
Your personality, genetics, and whether you have other mental health conditions can also affect whether you have an adjustment disorder or not.
Treatment Options for Adjustment Disorders
Medication
Medications like antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and sleep medications can all help patients with adjustment disorders. Which of these medications works best for you will depend on your specific symptoms. During your sessions with Dr. McGuire, she will discuss what is causing your symptoms and determine the right medication(s) for you.
But medication may not be the only line of treatment. Medication, along with therapy, is typically the most effective approach for these disorders.
Therapy
Therapy is the primary treatment for adjustment disorders. With Dr. McGuire’s expertise, you can receive emotional support, get help getting back into a routine, learn why the stressful event affected you, and discover certain stress management and coping skills to deal with future events. Dr. McGuire will be your guide on your journey to learn how to deal with your stress and to start living a fulfilling life once again.
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t struggle on your own with the symptoms of an adjustment disorder. Dr. McGuire can help you learn to cope with stress and any events life throws at you. To get started, schedule a consultation today. Call our Denver office or message us via our online contact form.
Dr. Colleen McGuire
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine specializing in Psychiatry with a background in Anthropology and Music from the University of New Mexico, pre-med studies in Denver, and a medical degree from Touro University in California. She completed her residency at the University of Colorado, serving as Chief Resident, and has held key roles such as Attending Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Denver Health, as well as working in various inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. Dr. McGuire specializes in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, utilizing therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Known for her empathetic, client-centered approach and strong collaborative relationships, she is licensed in multiple states and enjoys mentoring nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Outside of work, she is a classical pianist, swimmer, and animal lover who values personal growth and creativity.
Read MoreSchedule Consultation
Start your journey toward the life you’ve always wanted with the help of Dr. McGuire at Cottonwood Psychiatry, and contact us today. Fill out our contact form below.
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a holistic approach to mental health. She completed her medical training at Touro University and residency at the University of Colorado, where she served as Chief Resident. Specializing in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, Dr. McGuire integrates therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Licensed in multiple states, she is known for her empathetic, client-centered care and dedication to mentoring. Outside work, she enjoys piano, swimming, and spending time with animals.