In the United States, an adjustment disorder is diagnosed by a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist using the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The DSM is published by the American Psychiatric Association and provides standardized guidelines for diagnosing mental health conditions.
To diagnose an adjustment disorder, the mental health professional will typically follow these steps:
Initial Assessment: The psychologist or psychiatrist will conduct an initial evaluation to gather relevant information about the individual's current symptoms, personal history, and any stressors or life events that might have triggered the emotional or behavioral difficulties.
Criteria for Adjustment Disorder: The mental health professional will use the criteria specified in the DSM to determine if the individual meets the diagnostic criteria for an adjustment disorder. According to the DSM-5, the main features of an adjustment disorder include the development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor within three months of the onset of the stressor.
Rule Out Other Conditions: The clinician will also consider other possible diagnoses to rule out conditions with similar symptoms. They will assess whether the symptoms are better explained by another mental health disorder.
Severity and Impairment: The mental health professional will assess the severity of the symptoms and how much they are impacting the individual's ability to function in their daily life. The diagnosis of an adjustment disorder requires that the symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Duration: The symptoms of an adjustment disorder are expected to resolve within six months after the stressor has ended. If the symptoms persist beyond that period, the clinician might reconsider the diagnosis.
Treatment Planning: After making a diagnosis, the psychologist or psychiatrist will use their assessment to develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs. Treatment options may include psychotherapy, support groups, stress management techniques, and sometimes medication if symptoms are severe or if there is comorbidity with other conditions.
It is important to note that the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions should always be conducted by qualified professionals. If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional difficulties, it's essential to seek help from a licensed mental health provider. They can offer appropriate support and guidance based on a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's unique situation.