Answer Adjustment disorder GAD Trigger Psychosocial stressor No specific trigger Onset & duration Within 3 months of stressor onset , and ends within 6 months after end of stressor Symptoms persist for ≥ 6 months Symptoms Mood can be depressed , anxious , or mixed Excessive free-floating anxiety about a number of ordinary events / activities 1 Step-by-step explanation Generated by AI Adjustment disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) are both mental health conditions, but they differ in their triggers, onset, duration, and symptoms.
1. Trigger: Adjustment disorder is typically triggered by a specific psychosocial stressor such as a major life change or traumatic event. On the other hand, GAD doesn't have a specific trigger. It can occur without any apparent reason.
2. Onset & Duration: Adjustment disorder usually begins within three months of the onset of the stressor and ends within six months after the stressor has ended. In contrast, the symptoms of GAD persist for six months or more.
3. Symptoms: The mood in adjustment disorder can be depressed, anxious, or a mix of both, depending on the individual's reaction to the stressor. In GAD, the individual experiences excessive, free-floating anxiety about a number of ordinary events or activities. This anxiety is often out of proportion to the situation and is difficult to control.