How to prepare for a video visit about Adjustment Disorder (Stress Response)

Audience: adult

Adjustment disorder is a common stress-related condition that can occur when you have difficulty coping with a significant life change or stressful event. Symptoms may include feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or having trouble functioning in daily life. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your symptoms and explore ways to manage stress. Preparing for your telemedicine appointment will help you get the most out of your visit. This guide explains what adjustment disorder is, how telemedicine can support your care, what to prepare before your video visit, and when to seek urgent help. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency help immediately.
• Severe worsening of anxiety or depression symptoms that interfere with daily life — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Inability to perform basic self-care or sudden confusion — get emergency medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and concerns related to adjustment disorder.
• Providing education about stress responses and coping strategies.
• Recommending counseling, therapy, or support services.
• Prescribing medications when appropriate and safe.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or urgent diagnostic tests.
• Managing medical emergencies or severe psychiatric crises.
• Providing in-person therapy or interventions requiring physical presence.

What is Adjustment Disorder?

Adjustment disorder is a stress-related condition that happens when you have trouble adjusting to a major life change or stressful event. This could include things like losing a job, relationship difficulties, moving, or illness. Symptoms often include feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed, and may affect your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy activities. These feelings usually start within three months of the event and typically improve over time with support.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to connect with a healthcare provider through video from your home or another private place. During your video visit, you can talk about your symptoms, discuss your stressors, and learn coping strategies. Providers can offer guidance, recommend therapy or support groups, and discuss if medication might be helpful. Telemedicine is convenient and can make it easier to get help without traveling.

What to Prepare Before Your Video Visit

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What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for Adjustment Disorder

**Can handle:**

**Cannot handle:**

When to Seek Immediate Help

If you experience any of the following, seek emergency care immediately:

After Your Video Visit: Next Steps

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your video visit.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the appointment.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms and when they started.
• Write down recent stressful events or life changes.
• List current medications or treatments you are using.
• Think of questions or goals you want to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment or self-care plan provided by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or therapy sessions.
• Use coping techniques discussed during your visit.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.

FAQs

What causes adjustment disorder?

Adjustment disorder is caused by difficulty coping with a significant life change or stressful event, such as loss, illness, or major life transitions. It is a common reaction to stress and varies from person to person.

How long does adjustment disorder last?

Symptoms usually begin within three months of the stressful event and often improve within six months once the stressor is removed or you adapt. However, duration can vary depending on individual circumstances.

Can adjustment disorder be treated with medication?

Medication is not always needed but may be prescribed to help manage symptoms like anxiety or depression. Treatment often includes counseling or therapy to develop coping skills.

Is telemedicine effective for managing adjustment disorder?

Yes, telemedicine can be effective for discussing symptoms, receiving education, and accessing therapy or medication management. It offers convenient access to care, especially when in-person visits are difficult.

What should I do if I have suicidal thoughts?

If you experience thoughts of harming yourself, seek emergency help immediately by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room. Inform your healthcare provider during your telemedicine visit as well.

Sources

1. Adjustment Disorders — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Adjustment Disorder: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Mental Health and Adjustment Disorders — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Adjustment Disorders — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.