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By Mayo Clinic staffMost people with adjustment disorder get better within six months and don't have long-term complications. However, people who also have another mental health disorder, a substance abuse problem or a chronic adjustment disorder are more likely to have long-term mental health problems, which may include:
- Depression
- Alcohol and drug addiction
- Suicidal thoughts and behavior
Compared with adults, teenagers with adjustment disorder — especially chronic adjustment disorder marked by behavior problems — are at significantly increased risk of long-term problems. In addition to depression, substance abuse and suicidal behavior, teenagers with adjustment disorder are at risk of developing psychiatric illnesses such as:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Antisocial personality disorder
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