Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) Treatment Psychiatrist Q&A

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a temporary mental health condition that can emerge within the initial month following exposure to a traumatic event. It shares close similarities with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is considered an early response to trauma.

The primary approach for treating acute stress disorder is psychotherapy, specifically talk therapy, which addresses the stress responses associated with the condition.

Various types of traumatic events can precipitate ASD. These can include natural disasters like tornadoes, fires, or floods, as well as instances of sexual assault, physical assault, verbal abuse, witnessing bodily harm or death, serious accidents, severe injuries, sudden illnesses, or even exposure to war-related experiences.

ASD can affect individuals at any stage of life, including childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Prompt identification and intervention through therapy can aid in alleviating the distressing symptoms of acute stress disorder and provide support for individuals who have experienced trauma.

ASD and PTSD share many similarities as both are responses to traumatic experiences. However, they differ in terms of duration and timing of onset. These factors play a role in the diagnosis, but it is crucial to prioritize appropriate treatment for both disorders.

While ASD and PTSD both involve symptoms of dissociation, a diagnosis of PTSD includes a dissociative sub-type when these symptoms are present. Dissociation refers to a sense of disconnection from oneself or the surrounding world.

Individuals may feel as if time is slowing down as if they are detached from their body, or as if they are observing life through a movie screen or in a daze.

Memory impairment is also common, often resulting in forgetting specific details of the traumatic event. Since PTSD lasts longer than ASD, identifying individuals experiencing dissociation becomes important to provide enhanced psychological care during their recovery process.

It is important to note that not all cases of acute stress disorder progress into post-traumatic stress disorder, and not all cases of PTSD are preceded by ASD. However, it is common for these two disorders to occur sequentially following a traumatic incident.

Understanding the relationship between ASD and PTSD aids in identifying those who may require continued support and intervention throughout their recovery journey.

ASD encompasses psychological and behavioral stress responses that can manifest in various ways. Symptoms may include recurring and uncontrollable memories of the traumatic event, accompanied by distressing nightmares and flashbacks.

Being reminded of the event can elicit intense psychological or physical distress. Persistent difficulty in experiencing positive emotions, such as happiness, contentment, or loving feelings, may be present. Individuals with ASD might also experience an altered sense of reality, feeling as if they are in a daze or perceiving time passing slowly. Memory loss regarding important aspects of the traumatic event can occur.

Efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings associated with the event may be observed, as well as attempts to avoid external reminders such as specific people, places, or objects. Sleep disturbances, irritability or anger outbursts, excessive attention to the possibility of danger, and difficulties in concentration are also common symptoms experienced by individuals with ASD.

It is important to note that the symptoms of acute stress disorder can vary from person to person, and not all individuals will experience every symptom mentioned. These symptoms collectively reflect the psychological and behavioral responses observed in individuals who have been exposed to traumatic events and subsequently develop acute stress disorder.

The prognosis for ASD varies depending on the individual and the treatment received. Without appropriate treatment, there is an increased risk of experiencing further difficulties, including the development of alcohol use disorder or substance use disorder.

Additionally, other mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or panic disorder may arise. Untreated ASD can also lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm, as well as challenges in work and relationships.

Seeking timely intervention and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the prognosis and reduce the potential for these adverse outcomes.

It is important to seek help for ASD if you are experiencing significant distress, impairment in daily functioning, and persistent symptoms beyond a few weeks following a traumatic event.

Treatment for acute stress disorder is available at Success Health System. We serve patients from Creve Coeur MO, St. Louis MO, Independence MO, Olathe KS, Columbia MO, Craig KS, Spring Hill KS, Prathersville MO, Pierpont MO, Kirkwood MO, Kansas City MO, River Bend, Mo & Beyond!