This patient summary on normal adjustment, psychosocial distress, and the adjustment disorders is adapted from a summary written for health professionals by cancer experts. This and other credible information about cancer treatment, screening, prevention, supportive care, and ongoing clinical trials, is available from the National Cancer Institute. Most patients with cancer experience a variety of emotional responses, however, they do not have signs and symptoms of any specific mental disorder. Psychological and social distress can be experienced at many levels ranging from normal adjustment to adjustment disorders to major mental disorders (for example, major depressive disorder). This brief summary describes normal adjustment issues, psychological and social distress, and the adjustment disorders. (Refer to the PDQ summaries on Anxiety Disorders and Depression for more information.)

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