What is Acute Stress Disorder? Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is a mental health condition that triggers feelings of extreme helplessness or fear due to a traumatic event.

Everyone experiences a traumatic event at some point in their lives. Trauma can come in many forms, and its impact varies from person to person. While feeling stressed or overwhelmed after a traumatic experience is completely normal, for someone with ASD the symptoms linger to the extent that their well-being and quality of life are severely affected if left untreated.

Early recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Symptoms for Acute Stress Disorder

ASD affects individuals in various ways – emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Common physical symptoms include a racing heart, excessive sweating, and trouble breathing. They are often accompanied by recurring intrusive memories of the traumatic event, not only disrupting their lives but also affecting relationships with family and friends as individuals become emotionally detached, irritable, or numb.

For instance, someone involved in a car accident might avoid driving altogether, haunted by vivid memories of the crash. They may feel as helpless months later as they did during the incident.

More severe cases may lead to dissociative amnesia, where individuals cannot recall key aspects of the traumatic event. Without intervention, ASD may contribute to the development of other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, further affecting a person’s ability to function.

Causes of Acute Stress Disorder

ASD typically develops as a response to an event that overwhelms an individual’s coping ability. These experiences can range from personal losses to catastrophic events.

Sudden death of a loved one, experiencing violence, or being exposed to life-threatening situations are common causes for Acute Stress Disorder. The unpredictable nature of such events makes it difficult for individuals to process their emotions.

People with a history of prior traumas, dissociative reactions, or psychological disorders may be more vulnerable to developing ASD.

Diagnosis of Acute Stress Disorder

Diagnosing ASD involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), an individual must display at least nine symptoms from any of the five categories of arousal, avoidance, dissociation, intrusion, and negative mood. These symptoms must present within a month of the traumatic event.

During the diagnostic process, the psychologist may ask about the nature of the traumatic event, the intensity and frequency of symptoms, and how these symptoms affect daily life. It further helps mental health professionals to rule out other potential causes, such as substance abuse, side effects of medications, or other psychiatric disorders.

If symptoms persist beyond one month, the condition may progress to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a chronic disorder that requires a different treatment approach.

Seeking Help and Treatment

The good news is that most people with ASD recover soon after they are removed from a stressful environment. Simple measures like practicing relaxation techniques, maintaining a routine, and seeking emotional support from loved ones can significantly help.

However, professional help is crucial, especially since studies show that over 80% of individuals with ASD may develop PTSD within six months if untreated.

Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are one of the most effective treatments for ASD. Through therapy sessions tailored to their specific needs, individuals can process their trauma, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

In severe cases, medications such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants may be prescribed to manage severe symptoms. Hospitalization may also be necessary if there’s a risk of self-harm or harm to others.

Access to Care in Pakistan

Access to mental health services in Pakistan has traditionally been limited, particularly in rural areas. Social stigma around mental health often discourages individuals from seeking help, with many fearing judgment or ostracization.

Fortunately, platforms like SehatYab are changing this narrative. By offering virtual consultations, they connect individuals with qualified online psychologists in Pakistan, providing much-needed support to those who may otherwise lack access.

Conclusion

Acute Stress Disorder is a serious mental health condition that can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s life if left untreated.

Recognizing the symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder and understanding its causes are the first steps toward recovery. Its symptoms, ranging from intrusive thoughts and emotional numbness to physical signs like difficulty breathing, often stem from overwhelming traumatic events.

While past traumas and preexisting mental health conditions can increase susceptibility, timely diagnosis and intervention ensure individuals can recover and regain control of their lives.

It is important to create a culture that encourages open conversations about mental health and reduces stigma to build a resilient society. If you or someone you know is struggling with ASD, consider reaching out to online psychologists in Pakistan through SehatYab for support and guidance to heal from the trauma.

acute stress disorderbest psychiatristCauses of Acute Stress DisordersehatyabSymptoms of Acute Stress DisorderTreatment of Acute Stress Disorder