Acute Stress Disorder

Dr. Ayush PandeyMBBS,PG Diploma

June 28, 2023

June 28, 2023

Acute Stress Disorder
Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a mental health condition that occurs after a traumatic event. This disorder can start as little as 3 minutes after the event and can last up to 30 days. Hence, it is considered to be a temporary condition. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 6 to 33 percent of people who experience a traumatic event may experience symptoms of ASD. If the symptoms of ASD are not treated on time, then it can take the form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Therefore, it is important to recognize ASD.

Today in this article, you will know in detail about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of acute stress disorder -

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Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms

Many times when some incident happens to a person, he/she keeps thinking about it for a long time. The thoughts of that incident keep running in the person's mind throughout the day, but when these symptoms are seen after a traumatic event, then it can be called acute stress disorder -

Do not forget the incident

The most common symptom of acute stress disorder is remembering the traumatic event over and over again. In this situation, the person thinks about that incident again and again. He/She goes into a flashback. He/She can see that incident in memories or even in dreams. This can even affect a person's sleep.

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Think negative

If a person keeps thinking negatively all the time after a traumatic incident, then it can be a symptom of acute stress disorder. In this situation, negative thoughts can come into the person's mind. He may be depressed and feel stressed.

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Do not go to the scene

People who have ASD after a traumatic event. They often do not like to visit that place again. They avoid thoughts, people, and places that they associate with the traumatic event. Therefore, this condition can also be considered as a symptom of ASD.

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Being tense

Persistent stress after a traumatic event can also be a symptom of ASD. In this situation, the person may have problems related to sleep. There may be difficulty in concentrating. Not only this, the person may become irritable after the incident. People suffering from ASD may always be in anxietystress, and depression.

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Loss of appetite

Many people go into depression after a traumatic event. In this condition, they feel less hungry. Along with this, the weight also starts decreasing. In this situation, they may feel restless and tired. These conditions can also be a symptom of acute stress disorder.

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Acute Stress Disorder Causes

Any traumatic event can cause acute stress disorder. Indeed, ASD may develop after a person has experienced one or more traumatic events. This traumatic event can cause physical, emotional, or psychological harm to the individual. This traumatic event can be of the following types -

  • Death of a family member
  • Serious injury
  • Watch a natural disaster
  • See any kind of road accident
  • Sexual abuse or domestic violence
  • Brain injury

Although anyone can develop ASD after a traumatic event, some people are at a higher risk of developing ASD. These include -

  • In people who have experienced a repeated traumatic event.
  • In people with a history of mental health disorders.
  • After age 40.
  • More in women than in men.

(Read More - 4 signs of stress)

Acute Stress Disorder Treatment

Treatment of acute stress disorder is possible to a large extent. Treatment of ASD focuses on reducing its symptoms and preventing PTSD. ASD can be treated in the following ways -

Cognitive behavioral therapy

It is also known as CBT. If the initial symptoms of acute stress disorder are seen, the doctor may recommend CBT i.e. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT can be an effective treatment. In this, the person is talked to improve mental health and removing negativity.

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Concentrate

In the event of acute stress disorder, tension, and depression starts in the person. At the same time, the problem of insomnia is also seen. The symptoms of ASD can be improved by meditating. Meditation and breathing exercises can be beneficial to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

(Read More - Stress Induced Asthma)

Medicines

Doctors can also prescribe medicines to reduce the symptoms of acute stress disorder. Antidepressant or anticonvulsant medications can help treat ASD.

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Takeaway

ASD is a common condition. It can happen to any person when he experiences a traumatic event. In this situation, symptoms like stress, insomnia, and negativity can be seen in the person. It is necessary to get ASD treated on time because if it is not treated, it can develop PTSD. So, talk to your friends and family to prevent ASD. Also, contact the doctor.

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