Stress response syndromes are also known as adjustment disorders. These conditions can arise during times of universal stress or even in response to a specific stressor. The symptoms of this condition can vary on a spectrum and might be misdiagnosed as clinical depression in some cases. The difference between this condition and major depression is often identified by verifying that the patient is not experiencing symptoms of suicidal ideation or severe physical health symptoms.
This mental health condition often changes the way that patients view the world and their place in it. People with stress response syndromes will usually experience symptoms within about three months of the inciting event or stress. These symptoms can last for months or years after the event has concluded.
Stress response syndromes cause reactions to a stressor that are far greater than what is considered typical for the inciting event. Many people experience the following symptoms to some degree or another:
The causes of this mental health condition can vary from person to person. The loss of a pet or a companion or family member, the loss of a job, or an illness can lead to this stress response syndrome. Any major change or transition in life related to ageing, a move, or even having an accident can cause this mental health condition to make itself known.
The risk factors for stress response disorder are:
Impulse Control & Addiction Disorders
Impulse Control & Addiction Disorder Medications
Personality Disorder Treatment
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Treatment
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment
Stress Response Syndrome Treatment
Diagnosis of this mental health condition often involves talking to a primary care doctor who might order lab tests and other physical tests to be sure that the symptoms of the condition are not being caused by physical illness. Primary care doctors will typically refer patients with the symptoms of stress response syndrome to a mental healthcare professional like a psychologist.
Mental health care diagnosis will often involve taking a full patient history and being sure that other mental health conditions are not the reason for a patient’s symptoms. Sometimes this mental health condition can overlap with other mental health diagnoses.
Treatment of these conditions can be complex and might involve many different healthcare professionals. It can also take some time to create a treatment plan that is truly effective for a patient. Treatment might include medications to support healthy brain chemicals and treatment through various forms of counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy.
Patients with this mental health issue are also encouraged to seek activities that provide them with a sense of purpose and to spend time with family and friends. Fear-based stress responses might also be treated with exposure therapy guided by a mental healthcare professional.
Prevention of this condition might not be possible. Life can be stressful, and anyone can suffer from this mental health condition. Working on your coping skills, seeking supportive care, and maintaining your connections with friends and family can help to prevent this kind of mental health condition from impacting your life.