Adjustment disorders

When a major life disruption prevents us from using normal coping mechanisms or renders them ineffective, it may impact our mental and emotional health. Simple daily tasks may become too difficult. We may feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, adopt maladaptive behaviors, lose interest in our favorite activities, or avoid our family and friends.

A few days or weeks of turmoil after a major life disruption is not uncommon. When it lasts too long it can be the sign of more serious difficulties. Talking to a therapist can be beneficial when someone feels unable to retrieve a sense of stability after an important change. Therapy provides a safe space to explore losses and what is holding us back. It can help us discover new coping strategies, tap into our strengths, improve our adaptability, and help us prepare for future changes.