What Is Acute Stress Disorder?
Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term mental health condition that can develop within the first month after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a sexual assault or surviving a mass shooting.
The key difference between ASD and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the length and timing of the symptoms. ASD is often considered a precursor to PTSD, which typically develops within six months.
Signs and Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder
Acute stress disorder can cause both emotional and physical symptoms.
Emotional Symptoms
- Anxiety and irritability.
- Guilt, shame, sadness, or depression.
- Emotional numbness and difficulty connecting with others.
- Shock, disbelief, and difficulty processing the event.
Physical Symptoms
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Experiencing nightmares.
- Muscle tension.
- Increased heart rate, sweating, or shaking.
- Nausea or upset stomach.
- Hypervigilance.
Causes and Risk Factors
Traumatic Events Leading to Acute Stress Disorder
Experiencing, witnessing, or being confronted with one or more of the following traumatic events can cause acute stress disorder:
- Serious or life-threatening accidents.
- Physical or sexual assault.
- Physical danger or loss in a natural disaster.
- Death of a close friend or loved one.
- Threat of death or serious injury to oneself or others.
- Combat exposure.
- Sudden or unexpected life changes (e.g., divorce, job loss, financial crisis).
Personal and Environmental Risk Factors
Those with one or more of the following have a higher risk of developing ASD after a traumatic event:
- A history of ASD or PTSD.
- A history of certain mental health disorders.
- A history of childhood abuse or neglect.
- A history of detachment or reduced awareness during traumatic events.
Diagnosis of Acute Stress Disorder
Acute Stress Disorder Criteria
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) book by the American Psychiatric Association, a person must meet the following criteria:
- Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violation.
- Presence or worsening of nine or more symptoms of intrusion, negative mood, dissociation, avoidance, and arousal.
- Symptoms that begin immediately after the trauma and continue for at least three days.
- Significant distress or impairment in social, professional, or other areas of functioning.
- The distress is not related to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., medication or alcohol) or other medical condition.
- The distress is not better explained by a brief psychotic disorder.
Assessment and Diagnostic Tools
While there is no single test to definitively diagnose ASD, the licensed therapists at Beach House may use a combination of tools to assess whether you or your loved one meets the DSM-5-TR criteria for ASD. These tools help inform an accurate diagnosis:
- Comprehensive assessment of symptoms, along with a detailed medical and mental health history.
- Clinical structured interview to gather specific information about the event and emotional response.
- Acute Stress Disorder Symptom Severity Scale to assess the severity and duration of symptoms.
- For children only—Child Stress Reaction Checklist (CSDS) to measure symptom severity and their impact on the child’s functioning.
Treatment Options for Acute Stress Disorder
Medications
- Anti-Anxiety
- Antidepressants
- Beta-blockers
- Atypical antipsychotics
Therapy Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) With Exposure Therapy
CBT for acute traumatic stress disorder is a form of talk therapy designed to help individuals manage their fear and anxiety. Through techniques like behavioral experiments, it encourages people to reframe their thoughts and responses, building healthier ways to cope with the stress and emotions related to the traumatic event.
Coping Strategies and Stress Management Techniques
Here are some coping strategies and stress management techniques that can help manage ASD symptoms:
- Deep breathing exercises, medication, yoga, tai chi, or journaling.
- Talking to trusted people about your feelings and concerns.
- Eat well, get enough quality sleep, and stay physically active.
- Avoid over-exposure to news and media outlets and avoid stressful situations.
Get Help Today
When to Seek Professional Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of acute stress disorder, we can help. Our center for recovery is one of Florida’s most respected mental health treatment centers. We specialize in treating a range of adult mental and behavioral health disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Finding a Specialist for Acute Stress Disorder
We offer expert, intensive intervention for those seeking freedom from ASD and a range of other mental health conditions. Contact our admissions counselors to learn more about our ASD treatments and how to get started on your path to lasting healing today.
