Adjustment Disorders Are Uniquely Suited for eHealth Interventions: Concept and Case Study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Mental Health Research

Background:

• Adjustment disorders are frequently diagnosed globally but remain underresearched.
• The upcoming ICD-11 reclassifies them as stress-response disorders with defined symptoms.
• These disorders are common in self-harm cases and general practice consultations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of evidence-based interventions for adjustment disorders.
• To examine the new ICD-11 concept of adjustment disorders.
• To discuss the potential of eHealth for intervention.

Main Methods:

• Review of the ICD-11 conceptualization of adjustment disorders.
• Case study analysis of an unguided self-help protocol for burglary victims.
• Exploration of eHealth implementation for adjustment disorder intervention.

Main Results:

• A self-help manual significantly reduced adjustment disorder symptoms, including preoccupation and failure to adapt.
• The intervention also decreased co-occurring symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
• Unguided self-help demonstrated efficacy in managing mental distress post-stressor.

Conclusions:

• E-mental health interventions are well-suited for early support after stressful life events.
• This approach can help mitigate the development or severity of adjustment disorders.
• Digital health solutions offer accessible pathways for managing stress-related mental health conditions.