(e.g., traumatic accident, bomb blast, acceleration/deceleration trauma), symptoms of
acute stress disorder may appear. An event causing head trauma may also constitute a
psychological trau matic event, and tramautic brain injury (TBI)–related neurocognitive
symptoms are not mutually exclusive and ma y occur concurrently. Symptoms previously
termed postconcussive  (e.g., headaches, dizziness, sensitiv ity to light or sound, irritability,
concentration deficits) can occur in brain-injured and non–brain injured populations, in-
cluding individuals with acute stress disorder . Because symptoms of acute stress disorder
and TBI-related neurocognitive symptoms can overlap, a differential diagnosis between
acute stress disorder and neurocognitive di sorder symptoms attributable to TBI may be
possible based on the presence of symptoms that are distinctive to each presenta-
tion. Whereas reexperiencing and avoidance are characteristic of acut e stress disorder and
not the effects of TBI, persistent disorientation  and confusion are more specific to TBI (neu-
rocognitive effects) than to acute stress disord er. Furthermore, differential is aided by the
fact that symptoms of acute stress disorder persist for up to only 1 month following trauma
exposure.
Adjustment Disorders
Diagnostic Criteria
A. The development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable
stressor(s) occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor(s).
B. These symptoms or behaviors are clinically significant, as evidenced by one or both of
the following:
1. Marked distress that is out of proportion to the severity or intensity of the stressor,
taking into account the external context and the cultural factors that might influence
symptom severity and presentation.
2. Significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.