A guide to practical insights and strategies on managing adjustment, enabling you to thrive in daily living with confidence and clarity.
Let’s talk about Adjustment
Overview
Adjustment refers to the process of adapting to new circumstances or environments. While it’s a normal part of life, sometimes these changes can be particularly challenging, leading to what’s known as an adjustment disorder. This occurs when a stressful life event—such as the loss or illness—provokes a prolonged emotional reaction that starts to affect daily functioning.
Symptoms
Signs to watch
Adjustment difficulties can manifest in various ways. These symptoms typically appear after a stressful life event and can last for months following the stressor. Some of the common symptoms include:
Mood Changes
Feeling sad, hopeless, or more anxious than usual
Sleep/Appetite
Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
Cognitive Difficulties
Struggling to concentrate or make decisions
Overwhelm
Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with daily tasks.
Social Withdrawal
Withdrawing from social interactions or activities you usually enjoy
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches
Performance Issues
Changes in performance at work or school
Treatments
Proven Strategies
What helps? Therapy and particular approaches (e.g., Grief work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-focused therapies) can enable individuals to safely process the stressful life event in a coherent way.
Tips & Tricks
Try for today
Let’s focus on what you can do right now, manageable and simple strategies that can help you navigate through the day. When facing adjustment challenges, small steps can make a big difference.
Seek Help
When to seek professional help
While adjustment difficulties are common, professional help may be necessary if symptoms significantly interfere with daily life, persist for several weeks, or lead to thoughts of self-harm or unhealthy coping mechanisms. Mental health professionals can provide tailored strategies to navigate challenges and build resilience. Consider seeking help if your symptoms are impacting your relationships, work performance, or overall well-being. Remember, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Rebekah Davenport
Psychologist
Rebekah (she/her) is an AHPRA registered psychologist who completed her postgraduate clinical training at The University of Melbourne. Her empathetic and non-judgemental approach fosters a secure therapeutic space where meaningful change can unfold, often prompting individuals to understand the past and how it presents itself in the present.
