Could You Have Adjustment Disorder/Stress Response Syndrome?

Available Treatment Options

The good news is many cases of stress response syndrome subside on their own. Over time, as the stressor fades, affected individuals come to term with the event, and their symptoms go away. However, professional help to aid with the coping process is readily available and beneficial to many patients. Treatment is also essential in ensuring stress response syndrome doesn't morph into another mental illness, such as anxiety disorder or major depression.

After a psychiatrist diagnoses a patient with stress response syndrome, there are many treatment options available, of which psychotherapy is the most common. This therapy can help patients understand their response, ease their symptoms, and develop healthy coping mechanisms going forward. Family therapy may be helpful for adolescents with adjustment disorder. Behavioral therapy and support groups are also available for the treatment of stress response syndrome.

Healthy Coping Mechanisms

It is normal to feel sad, alone, or anxious after a stressful life event. It is crucial for individuals to monitor their mental health, build resilience, and take steps to avoid sliding into a territory where professional help is needed. After a stressful or traumatizing life event, it is a good idea for individuals to have a plan in place to prevent their response from becoming stress response syndrome. There are many resources available to help cope with a traumatic event, both professional and informal. Feeling alone is possibly the most common response following a disaster or tragedy.

To mitigate these feelings, experts recommend joining an active support group. The support group could come in the form of family, friends, or community organizations like churches. In the modern age, it is also important for patients to regulate their media consumption after a life-changing event, so the constant barrage of bad news doesn't become overwhelming. Staying informed is essential after a disaster or tragedy, but many individuals will want to limit their exposure and avoid uncredible sources or rumors.