Adjustment difficulties can happen after changes that are objectively good or bad, the issue is often load, uncertainty, and identity disruption, not weakness.

Common triggers people underestimate

• role change at work, redundancy, promotion

• relationship shifts

• relocation

• becoming a carer

• health changes

• burnout recovery (a transition)

When “normal stress” becomes a problem

It may be time to seek support when symptoms persist and significantly affect:

• sleep, appetite, concentration

• work or study functioning

• relationships

• ability to do basic daily tasks

What treatments have evidence

A 2025 systematic review/meta-analysis of RCTs suggests CBT approaches (including internet-based CBT) may be effective for adjustment disorder symptoms, while noting the evidence base is still developing.

A simple adjustment toolkit

• Anchor routines: sleep/wake cues first

• Shrink the horizon: plan 48 hours, not 3 months

• Name the loss: even good change has costs

• One support action: ask for practical help, not just “emotional support”

General information only. If you’re at risk, call 000 or Lifeline 13 11 14.

References

• Cowansage, K. P., et al. (2025). Treatments for adjustment disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychiatry Research.