What exactly is an adjustment disorder?

An adjustment: disorder is a reaction to life stressful life circumstances. Usually it is mild and can be treated with brief psychotherapy.

Change: Briefly, adjustment disorders refer to two much change into short period of time. An example would be the loss of a parent, moving to a new home, and changing jobs, all within the space of three weeks. If you could imagine, that, for most people, would be an example of too much change into short period of time. The results of this change would be emotionally overwhelming.

Adjustment Disorder: involves development of emotional (depression, anxiety) and/or behavioral (conduct) issues w/in 3 months of identifiable stressor (anything positive or negative causing stress) in excess of what would be expected, causes significant impairment in social occupational or educational function, and lasts less than 6 months. It may resolve or lead to longer issues. Evaluation/therapy may be necessary.