Life brings changes at every age, but for children and teens, experiences like moving to a new school, parental separation, or the loss of a loved one can feel especially overwhelming. While some young people bounce back with time and support, others may struggle to adjust, showing signs of emotional distress or changes in behavior. When these reactions go beyond typical stress and begin to interfere with daily life, it may be more than just a rough patch. In these cases, the young person may be experiencing what’s known as Adjustment Disorder. 

What is adjustment disorder? 

Adjustment disorder (AD) in youth is a mental health condition that arises when a young person has difficulty adapting to a major life change or stressful event. Unlike normal stress reactions, AD involves emotional or behavioral symptoms—such as anxiety, sadness, or acting out—that are more severe than what would typically be expected and significantly interfere with everyday functioning. As defined in the DSM-5, adjustment disorder typically develops within three months of the stressor and resolves within six months once the stressor ends. However, if the stressor continues, the symptoms may persist as well. Understanding AD is crucial for early identification and intervention, especially during the formative years when coping skills are still developing. 

What adjustment disorder might look like in kids or teens 

Adjustment disorder can present in many different ways in youth, depending on their age, personality, and the nature of the stressor. While some may become withdrawn and quiet, others might act out or display increased emotional sensitivity. These responses can sometimes be mistaken for other mental health conditions, which is why it's important to look at the timing and context of the behaviors. Common signs of adjustment disorder in youth include: 

• Increased irritability or mood swings: Sudden changes in mood, including anger or frustration. 

• Withdrawal from friends, family, or once-enjoyed activities: Pulling away from social connections or hobbies that used to bring joy. 

• Heightened emotional sensitivity: Becoming easily upset or overwhelmed by situations that wouldn’t normally cause distress. 

• Decline in academic performance or school refusal: Struggling with grades, losing interest in school, or avoiding attendance altogether. 

• Physical complaints: Experiencing physical symptoms that are stress-related rather than linked to illness. 

• Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling or staying asleep or sleeping excessively as a way to escape stress. 

• Risk-taking behaviors: Engaging in unsafe or impulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism. 

Why young people get adjustment disorder 

Young people are particularly sensitive to changes in their environment, and when those changes disrupt their sense of stability or safety, they may develop adjustment disorder. This condition is directly linked to identifiable stressors—events or situations that challenge a child’s ability to cope. Common triggers for stress in children and teens include: 

• Family changes: Divorce, remarriage, new sibling 

• Academic pressure: Poor grades, bullying, changing schools 

• Losses: Death of a loved one or pet, end of a close friendship 

• Other challenges: Moving, illness, or trauma 

Each child’s response to these experiences is shaped by their personality, past experiences, and the emotional and social support they have around them. 

Why early awareness matters 

Early awareness in youth is crucial for timely intervention and support. The sooner symptoms of adjustment disorder are recognized, the more effectively professionals and caregivers can help the young person develop healthier coping strategies, reduce emotional distress, and prevent long-term negative outcomes. 

At Connections, we provide compassionate, expert mental health care for youth and families—when and where it's needed most. With centers serving youth located in Tucson, Arizona and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, we strive to provide the care families need, right when they need it. If you're near one of our locations, you can simply walk in—no appointment or referral required.

Expanding access to youth mental health care

Connections is growing to meet the needs of more youth and families nationwide. We’re opening new doors and expanding services in 2025.

• Connections Prince William Crisis Receiving Center
  Opening soon in Woodbridge, Virginia, this new facility at 14011 Worth Avenue will provide round-the-clock behavioral health care for both youth and adults as part of the Prince William Crisis Receiving Center Complex.

• Connections Kirkland
  Our Kirkland, Washington center—currently focused on adult services—will begin offering care for youth starting in Summer 2025. Find us at 11410 NE 122nd Way, Kirkland, WA.

Not close to a Connections center? You’re not alone. National resources are available to help you and your family no matter where you are.

If a young person in your life needs immediate help or you’re unsure where to turn, call or text 988—the free, confidential national crisis helpline available 24/7. To learn more, visit 988helpline.org.