Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Adjustment Disorder And Cognitive Behavior Therapy

By Lee Larossier


A lot of people have problems with adjustment disorder, also known as AD. This condition may be the result of many different factors, but essentially it involves maladjustment to major life events. Most people with AD will get better after six months or so. However, it can linger and it may be necessary to seek professional help with treatment like cognitive behavior therapy or CBT.

When someone undergoes cognitive behavior therapy they are getting two types of therapy in one package. Behavior therapy closely examines behavior and how it can affect things in life, including relationships with others. Cognitive therapy focuses on thought and how one's thoughts motivate behavior. It is especially important to examine inner thoughts about the way you see others.

CBT is aimed at changing the way you think and they way that you act, to make your life better and to deal with problems and frustrations. It is important that CBT be delivered by an experienced and trained therapist or analyst. In fact, in the U. S., one should have certification from the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists. Qualifications for this certification are extensive and include a Master's Degree in Psychology or a related field.

The initial stage of CBT includes assessment and education. One may sit with the therapist and go over all of the symptoms that have been causing problems. It is also important to let your therapist know how long you have been having difficulties. You also will receive information on why you have this condition and you may need to read and study on your own, as part of your therapy.

After assessment and education comes getting back to normal routines. Many people with AD are alone and isolated and it is important to get out and start acting normal again. If you have quit going to the gym or taking a walk in the park, you may be asked to start these actions again. You might need to write down a schedule or plan, for getting back to the business of living.

Once you begin the process of resuming normal activities you will begin working on self destructive thoughts. Many times, one feels anxiety or stress because of an "inner voice" that keeps playing the same messages over and over. In time, these thoughts will become a part of you and you may not realize they exist. You need to be aware of this mental action in order to avoid frustration. For example, you could be constantly telling yourself that you do not deserve any more than what you have.

A lot of your therapy will be about examining improper thoughts. You may need to keep a diary of thoughts to find out what is running through your head during the day. A detailed record of what you are thinking can expose the source of a lot of inner turmoil.

The final part of your therapy works on preventing a relapse. You must have coping skills that will stay with you from now on. This is why you must work on your new skills until they become part of you. This helps to prevent relapse into adjustment disorder hopelessness.




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