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  • What Is ASD?What Is ASD?
  • How Common Is It?How Common Is It?
  • Common SymptomsCommon Symptoms
  • What Causes It?What Causes It?
  • Risk FactorsRisk Factors
  • Possible ComplicationsPossible Complications
  • How Is It Diagnosed?How Is It Diagnosed?
  • Can It Be Prevented?Can It Be Prevented?
  • Treatment OptionsTreatment Options
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Helping a Loved OneHelping a Loved One
  • In My ExperienceIn My Experience
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Stress Articles Stress Therapy for Stress Stress Management Types of Stress

Acute Stress Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Author: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Hailey Shafir LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

Hailey specializes in adults, children, and families with addiction and mental health disorders.

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Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD Licensed medical reviewer

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Kristen Fuller MD

Kristen Fuller, MD is a physician with experience in adult, adolescent, and OB/GYN medicine. She has a focus on mood disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorder, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health.

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Published: February 20, 2024
  • What Is ASD?What Is ASD?
  • How Common Is It?How Common Is It?
  • Common SymptomsCommon Symptoms
  • What Causes It?What Causes It?
  • Risk FactorsRisk Factors
  • Possible ComplicationsPossible Complications
  • How Is It Diagnosed?How Is It Diagnosed?
  • Can It Be Prevented?Can It Be Prevented?
  • Treatment OptionsTreatment Options
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Helping a Loved OneHelping a Loved One
  • In My ExperienceIn My Experience
  • InfographicsInfographics
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term condition that develops after experiencing trauma. Symptoms mirror those of PTSD but resolve within a month of the triggering event. However, those with ASD can still experience distressing nightmares, hypervigilance, and anxiety that impair their ability to function. Seeking professional support can help prevent ASD from worsening and becoming PTSD.

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What Is Acute Stress Disorder?

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term condition that develops within a month of experiencing trauma, such as an accident, injury, or assault. Symptoms of acute stress disorder can leave individuals feeling anxious, helpless, or emotionally numb. Early intervention is crucial to prevent ASD from worsening and progressing.

Acute Stress Disorder Vs. PTSD

Acute stress disorder resembles post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but differs slightly. Physicians diagnose ASD when symptoms occur within three to 30 days following trauma, while PTSD persists beyond a month.

Moreover, PTSD includes behavioral and non-fear-based symptoms, such as negative self-talk and self-blame. Those with PTSD also often report feeling detached or dissociated from their bodies and surroundings. These symptoms do not commonly accompany ASD.

Acute Stress Disorder Vs. Adjustment Disorder

Both ASD and adjustment disorder reflect a response to stress or trauma. However, ASD typically occurs after an extremely traumatic event, while adjustment disorder can result from more common life stressors.

For example, individuals may experience adjustment disorder after a job loss, divorce, or illness, whereas ASD develops after events like assault, witnessing death, or surviving a disaster. Adjustment disorder symptoms are often less invasive, long-lasting, and life-altering than those associated with acute stress disorder.

How Common Is Acute Stress Disorder?

Many may not seek treatment after a traumatic experience, which makes pinpointing the exact number of people with acute stress disorder impossible. However, some studies suggest that 19% of trauma survivors experience ASD, with 80% later developing PTSD.1,2,3

Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms

Common symptoms of acute stress disorder include intrusive thoughts or memories related to the traumatic event, often referred to as flashbacks. These experiences can be distressing and cause the individual to relive the event. Individuals with ASD may also have nightmares and emotional numbness. This stress can contribute to difficulty sleeping, irritability, and avoidance of people or situations that trigger trauma memories.

Below are common symptoms of acute stress disorder:

  • Recurring, uncontrollable, and distressing memories of the event
  • Recurrent nightmares of the event
  • Flashbacks
  • Intense psychological or physical distress when reminded of the event
  • Persistent inability to experience positive emotions
  • An altered sense of reality (feeling in a daze or as if time has slowed)
  • Memory loss related to the event
  • Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings associated with the event
  • Avoidance behavior toward people, places, conversations, and situations associated with the event
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Irritability or angry outbursts
  • Hypervigilance
  • Difficulty concentrating or focusing
  • An exaggerated response to stimuli (startle response)

Causes of Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder stems from exposure to an acute trauma event that threatens or causes serious harm to physical or emotional well-being. For example, causes of acute stress disorder can include surviving natural disasters, serious accidents, or physical or sexual assault. The intensity and impact of the traumatic event can vary, and not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop ASD.

Below are traumatic events that may cause acute stress disorder:

  • Natural disasters (i.e., fires, floods, or earthquakes)
  • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Plane crashes
  • War
  • Refugee camps
  • Witnessing harm to others
  • Witnessing death
  • Experiencing sudden or severe illness

Risk Factors for Acute Stress Disorder

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing ASD following a traumatic event. However, not everyone with these risk factors will have the disorder. People respond to trauma differently, and the development of ASD is a complex interplay between individual factors and the specific traumatic event experienced.

Factors that increase the risk of acute stress disorder include:

  • Pre-existing mental health conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression may be more susceptible to developing ASD after a traumatic event.
  • Avoidance coping: Engaging in avoidance coping, such as suppressing thoughts and emotions, can increase the risk of developing ASD.
  • Poor support networks: Individuals with fewer resources and outlets to process their trauma are at a higher risk of ASD.
  • Severity and intensity of the trauma: Experiencing a more severe and life-threatening traumatic event can increase the risk of developing ASD.
  • History of previous trauma: Having a history of previous traumatic events can heighten the vulnerability to developing acute stress disorder after subsequent traumas.
  • Personality traits: Certain personality traits like high levels of anxiety or being prone to stress can increase the risk of developing ASD.
  • Gender: Women may have a higher risk of developing ASD compared to men, potentially due to biological and societal factors.
  • Age: Younger individuals may be more susceptible to ASD, as they may have fewer coping mechanisms and struggle with processing and integrating their trauma experiences.

Complications of Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder can lead to various complications that significantly impact well-being and daily functioning. Constant anxiety can worsen sleep problems and contribute to maladaptive coping via substance use. In other cases, ASD can also affect relationships, as individuals struggle to regain emotional stability after experiencing trauma. Early intervention and appropriate treatment for ASD are crucial for reducing the risk of problems.

Below are the possible impacts of acute stress disorder:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): ASD can lead to PTSD if symptoms persist beyond one month or worsen over time.
  • Depression: The distressing symptoms of ASD can contribute to the development or worsening of depression, a common mental health disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities and life.
  • Anxiety disorders: ASD can result in or exacerbate anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
  • Substance use disorders: Individuals with untreated or unmanaged ASD may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism, sometimes leading to the development of substance use disorders.
  • Occupational impairment: The symptoms of ASD can interfere with the ability to perform occupational responsibilities, potentially leading to job loss or difficulties at work.
  • Relationship problems: ASD can impact the ability to form and maintain healthy relationships, resulting in interpersonal difficulties, social isolation, and strained relationships with friends and family.
  • Sleep disorders: ASD can impact sleep quality, sometimes resulting in insomnia and nightmares.

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How Is Acute Stress Disorder Diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with ASD, an individual must have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and exhibit specific symptoms that cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning. A licensed mental health professional can evaluate to determine if someone meets the criteria for ASD. They may also perform a differential diagnosis to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.

Can Acute Stress Disorder Be Prevented?

Due to the nature of acute stress, prevention is nearly impossible. However, you can train your mind to cope with distress more easily by learning about your triggers. Working with a therapist to address these issues can be helpful and limit future stress reactions.

Acute Stress Disorder Treatment

Treatment for acute stress disorder usually involves therapy, sometimes alongside medication.2,8 Professional support can help those with ASD learn healthy ways to cope with and heal from trauma. Often, taking the first step is hard. Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health.

Therapy

Individuals should consider trauma-informed therapy if they struggle to cope with acute stress disorder. These specialists understand the impact trauma can have on every aspect of life and help you develop healthy coping skills. Many other approaches are also available, so explore local or online therapy options to determine what best suits your needs. Finding the right therapist is essential to receiving the best care and symptom improvement.

Therapy options for acute stress disorder may include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on modifying unhealthy thoughts and emotions that contribute to behavior. In the case of trauma survivors, CBT can help clients confront distressing memories to reduce their impact.
  • Prolonged exposure therapy: This form of CBT helps people gradually desensitize themselves to traumatic memories and reminders.
  • Trauma-focused CBT (TFCBT): TFCBT focuses on teaching children and adolescents to manage difficult trauma reactions through relaxation, emotional regulation, and parent-child collaboration.
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT emphasizes accepting and tolerating difficult thoughts and feelings while responding in ways that align with personal values.
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR involves guided eye movements intended to evoke trauma memories. The client and therapist then verbally process these experiences to reduce distress.
  • Somatic therapy: Somatic therapy incorporates body-focused exercises to increase self-awareness and discharge residual trauma effects.

Medication

A doctor, psychiatrist, or other licensed prescriber may prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms of acute stress disorder. Depending on their symptoms and co-occurring conditions, people may benefit from antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications.1,5 A prescribing physician will evaluate patients to determine which options best suit their needs and hopes for treatment. Always consult a professional about the risks and benefits of medication.

How to Cope With Acute Stress Disorder

If you have experienced a recent traumatic event and are experiencing signs and symptoms of acute stress disorder, you should seek the help of a professional counselor. Early treatment can help reduce symptoms and, in some cases, prevent the development of PTSD.

Below are 11 ways to cope with acute stress disorder:

  • Stay active and social: Continue seeing friends and family, especially when struggling. Your support system will encourage you in your healing journey by validating your experience and efforts. Seek positive people with whom to grow and develop.
  • Try meditation or mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness can help reduce stress, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Consider implementing daily practices to regulate your stress response and promote relaxation, even in the face of trauma triggers.
  • Avoid unhealthy coping skills: People experiencing high levels of distress are more likely to fall into unhealthy behavior patterns, such as overeating, overspending, or substance use. These strategies may provide temporary relief but become problematic when you use them to avoid, escape, or cope with difficult emotions.
  • Set and work toward goals: Setting healthy goals can help ensure you stay hopeful about the future. They can also guard against depression and anxiety and provide a sense of meaning and purpose.
  • Find the silver lining: No one wants or deserves trauma. However, people who seek post-traumatic growth can better cope and move forward with their lives. Focus on finding silver linings in your values, relationships, or accomplishments. Highlight anything that brings joy and substance to your life.
  • Regularly move your body: Physical activity boosts endorphins that combat negative mood. Regular exercise may help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress associated with ASD.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your mental and physical health, helping reduce stress and providing necessary resources to cope with ASD.
  • Focus on getting enough sleep: Prioritizing healthy sleep habits by establishing a routine and creating a calming sleep environment allows your body to rest and recharge.
  • Celebrate little victories: Recognize and acknowledge your achievements, even small ones, to boost your sense of accomplishment, self-esteem, and resilience in the face of ASD.
  • Shun self-blame: Understand that ASD is a natural response to a traumatic event and avoid blaming yourself for the symptoms you experience
  • Take time for self-care: Engage in activities you find enjoyable and relaxing, whether engaging in hobbies, spending time in nature, or seeking support from loved ones. Prioritizing self-care can help reduce stress and promote healing during the recovery process.

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Helping a Loved One With Acute Stress Disorder

Finding ways to support someone who has experienced trauma can be difficult. Remember to keep communication open and stay empathetic. While you cannot force them to accept help, you can encourage them to take the first step.

Below are ways to support a loved one experiencing acute stress disorder:4

  • Open lines of communication: Let your loved one know you are a safe space to talk about and share their feelings. Many people with trauma histories struggle with vulnerability, and they may decline your offer. However, keep the invitation open should they change their mind.
  • Express your concern: Ask them how they feel if you notice changes in their mood or behavior. Avoid pushing them for answers, but calmly express your concern for their well-being. Reiterate you care about them and want them to feel their best.
  • Encourage treatment: Help your loved one in the aftermath of trauma by encouraging them to seek support. Ask them how you assist them, whether driving them to therapy appointments, sitting with them afterward, or simply lending a listening ear.
  • Continue to check in: Check in with your loved one periodically, as the effects of trauma can be overwhelming. The recovery period can be difficult, but survivors often feel better when they know they are not alone.

In My Experience

Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS

“Effective treatment for Acute stress disorder can be invaluable. Through therapy, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their trauma, learn practical coping skills, and develop resilience. With timely intervention, many individuals experience a significant reduction in ASD symptoms and an improved quality of life. Witnessing the resilience and strength of individuals as they navigate the healing process and emerge from ASD with a renewed sense of hope and well-being is empowering.”

Acute Stress Disorder Infographics

What Is Acute Stress Disorder   Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms   How to Cope With Acute Stress Disorder

Sources Update History

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2010). Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Patients With Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://psychiatryonline.org/pb/assets/raw/sitewide/practice_guidelines/guidelines/acutestressdisorderptsd.pdf.

  • Harvard Medical School. (2007). National Comorbidity Survey (NCS). Retrieved from https://www.hcp.med.harvard.edu/ncs/index.php.

  • National Center for PTSD. (n.d.). PTSD: National Center for PTSD. Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/teens_ptsd.asp.

  • World Health Organization. (2013). Assessment and Management of Conditions Specifically Related to Stress. Retrieved from https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/85623/9789241505932_eng.pdf;jsessionid=4D0BDAF3B9F2F30536E97D791A552798.

  • Sherin, J. E., & Nemeroff, C. B. (2011). Post-traumatic stress disorder: the neurobiological impact of psychological trauma. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 13(3), 263–278.

Show more Click here to open the article sources container.

We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

February 20, 2024
Author: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS (No Change)
Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No Change)
Primary Changes: Revised sections titled “What Is Acute Stress Disorder,” “Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms,” “Causes of Acute Stress Disorder,” and “How to Cope With Acute Stress Disorder” to improve factual accuracy. Added sections titled “Risk Factors for Acute Stress Disorder,” “Complications of Acute Stress Disorder,” and “How Is Acute Stress Disorder Diagnosed.” Fact-checked and edited for improved readability and clarity. New content written by Alexa Donnelly, LCSW and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.
June 14, 2022
Author: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS (No Change)
Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No Change)
Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources. Added “What Is Acute Stress Disorder?”, “When Acute Stress Reaction Symptoms Persist”, and “Can You Prevent an Acute Stress Reaction?” New material written by Silvi Saxena, MBA, MSW, LSW, CCTP, OSW-C and reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.
September 24, 2020
Author: Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD
Show more Click here to open the article update history container.

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