What You Need to Know About Acute Stress Disorder (or Acute Stress Reaction)

Recognised since 1994, Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) or Acute Stress Reaction is a short-term, intense and dysfunctional reaction to a traumatic event. While symptoms last less than a month, it can be an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience.

In this article, we will take you through what ASD is and its symptoms, to help you understand this condition a little better.

Also read: The Benefits of Anxiety

What is Acute Stress Disorder?

Acute Stress Disorder or Acute Stress Reaction is a type of anxiety disorder which typically occurs after a traumatic event. Symptoms manifest following an overwhelming experience and can last anywhere between three days to four weeks. If symptoms persist for longer than a month, individuals are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, a chronic mental health condition.

ASD usually occurs in individuals who have experienced a terrifying event, either directly or indirectly. Direct exposure refers to situations where they were under serious threat, and experienced extreme violence or the possibility of death. However, witnessing such events or learning of serious threats to a loved one can also lead to Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder through indirect exposure.

Also read: Dealing with Negative Emotions Positively

Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder

Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder are similar to those of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, but they are distinct conditions. While both are anxiety disorders, PTSD is chronic whereas ASD is transient, or short-term. However, individuals with a history of ASD are at a higher risk of experiencing PTSD.

When an individual experiences a terrifying or traumatic event, stress responses are common. However, in ASD, these responses are more intense and unpleasant and can last up to a month. Although symptoms usually fade with time, it is no less distressing to an individual.

Broadly, symptoms of ASD include feelings of distress, increased anxiety, avoidance and re-experiencing the traumatic event.

Distress

Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder can be distressing enough to interfere with one's functioning. Individuals are unable to speak about the traumatic event or go about their daily tasks.

Increased anxiety

Having trouble sleeping, feeling restless, being unable to focus and irritability are all signs of increased anxiety. Individuals experiencing AD symptoms of anxiety feel on edge at all times and may have exaggerated startled reactions.

Avoidance

One of the main Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder is avoidance. Individuals may avoid people, places, objects, conversations and other stimuli which may cause them to remember the traumatic event.

Re-experiencing the event

Unwanted and persistent re-experience of the vent through intrusive thoughts, images, nightmares, and flashbacks are another Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder. These flashbacks can be distressing and make the individual feel like they are reliving the terrifying event.

Unchecked, ASD symptoms can develop into PTSD. However, with early intervention, it is possible to decrease any long-term effects. Psychotherapy seems to be the preferred treatment approach, with techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Anxiety-Management being the most effective.

 Also read: Uncovering the Link Between Trauma and Depression

Thus, seeking professional treatment, especially for those working in high-risk jobs, is key to relieving symptoms of ASD. With a better understanding of its symptoms, it is easier to differentiate between a normal stress reaction and an impaired response to a stressful event.

Sources:

1. https://www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/covid19support/stress_anxiety/acute

2. https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-in/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/acute-stress-disorder#:~:text=Acute%20stress%20disorder%20is%20an,as%20having%20posttraumatic%20stress%20disorder

3. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/related/acute_stress.asp#:~:text=Acute%20Stress%20Disorder%20(ASD)%20is,about%20ASD%20and%20treatment%20options.

4. https://www.healthline.com/health/acute-stress-disorder#symptoms