For other people, their acute stress disorder resolves within a month of the traumatic event.
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How Is It Different From PTSD?
The primary differences between acute stress disorder and PTSD are onset timing, symptom duration, and diagnostic criteria.
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What Acute Stress Disorder Feels Like
Acute stress disorder can feel overwhelming, terrifying, and exhausting.
You might wake up with nightmares or feel bombarded by intrusive thoughts.
Many times, people feel trapped by their memories or disconnected from reality.
Risk Factors
Not everyone reacts to trauma and stress the same way.
There is less research specifically on TF-CBT for people with acute stress disorder rather than PTSD.
TF-CBT uses the CBT model but in the context of the person’s trauma.
Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is always important, particularly after you’ve experienced something traumatic.
Self-care also involves taking care of your body and mind.
Again, this can be challenging, depending on the circumstances.
Some helpful tips include:
Who Diagnoses Acute Stress Disorder?
Acute stress disorder requires a prompt diagnosis to help you feel better and lessen the risk of developing PTSD.
However, diagnosis can be difficult if you’re experiencing ongoing trauma.
Psychiatrists(doctors who specialize in mental health) diagnose acute stress disorder.
Summary
Acute stress disorder develops after a traumatic event and shares many characteristics with PTSD.
You deserve support if you are struggling after a stressful event.
Talk to a trusted loved one or healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
MSD Manual Professional Version.Acute and posttraumatic stress disorders (ASD and PTSD) in children and adolescents.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.Acute stress disorder.
American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
2022;13(1):2006502. doi: 10.1080/20008198.2021.2006502
Fanai M, Khan MAB.Acute stress disorder.StatPearls.
