Adjustment Disorders are primarily characterized by what feature?

Adjustment Disorders are primarily characterized by emotional or behavioral symptoms that arise in response to identifiable stressors. This includes a range of reactions, such as anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues, that occur within three months of the onset of the stressor. These symptoms can lead to significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Adjustment Disorders do not represent a serious mental illness requiring hospitalization, nor do they involve persistent, intrusive hallucinations or the development of compulsions following trauma. Instead, the essence of Adjustment Disorders lies in the person's inability to cope effectively with the specific stressor, leading to a temporary, but significant, emotional or behavioral reaction. The emphasis on identifiable stressors differentiates Adjustment Disorders from other mental health diagnoses, making it crucial for understanding and diagnosis.