Acute Stress Disorder – Expert Trauma Therapy

Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms

A qualified mental health professional should make a diagnosis of acute stress disorder after conducting a thorough assessment of symptoms and their impact on functioning. While acute stress disorder may manifest with other symptoms, the following are the most prevalent.

Dissociative Behavior

Dissociative behavior involves detachment from thoughts, feelings, identity, or surroundings and is linked to mental health conditions. It can manifest as dissociative amnesia, depersonalization, derealization, or identity confusion and may be a response to trauma or stress.

Hypervigilance

Hypervigilance is a heightened state of awareness and alertness characterized by an intense and persistent scanning of the environment for potential threats or dangers. Individuals experiencing hypervigilance are excessively watchful, attentive, and often have an exaggerated perception of potential risks.

Avoidance Behavior

Avoidance behavior refers to a pattern of actions or decisions aimed at steering clear of specific situations, thoughts, feelings, or memories that are perceived as distressing, threatening, or anxiety-inducing.

Re-experiencing the Trauma

Re-experiencing trauma refers to the involuntary recurrence or reliving of distressing and traumatic memories from a past traumatic event

Acute Stress Disorder Therapies

There are various therapeutic approaches designed to address different aspects of acute stress disorder. The below therapies are just a few of the care options available, each offering unique strategies to support individuals on their journey to improved mental health.

EMDR Therapy

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a powerful and evidence-based therapy approach that helps individuals process and heal… Learn more

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness- based therapy approach focuses on cultivating awareness and presence to help individuals and couples navigate through life’s challenges. Through… Learn more

Narrative Therapy

Narrative Therapy is a collaborative approach that helps clients reframe their personal narratives, empowering them to view their experiences from a new perspective. Through this process… Learn more

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Acute Distress Disorder FAQs

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a relatively common condition that can occur following a traumatic event. While not all individuals who experience trauma develop ASD, it is estimated that around 10-20% of people will go on to experience this disorder. The prevalence rates may vary depending on the population studied and the specific criteria used for diagnosis. It is important to note that prompt recognition and appropriate intervention can greatly improve outcomes for individuals with ASD.

ASD can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing ASD following a traumatic event. People who have experienced previous traumatic events or have a history of mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, may be more susceptible to developing ASD. Additionally, individuals with limited social support systems or those who lack access to mental health resources may also be at higher risk. It is important for healthcare providers to consider these risk factors when assessing individuals who have been exposed to trauma in order to provide timely and appropriate support.

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is caused by exposure to a traumatic event. This event can be anything from a natural disaster to a car accident, physical assault, or witnessing violence. The experience of trauma can overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope and process the event, leading to the development of ASD.

The specific mechanisms behind why some individuals develop ASD while others do not are not fully understood. However, factors such as the severity of the trauma, previous history of trauma or mental health issues, and individual resilience may play a role in the development of ASD.

At Healing Our Trauma we know that you want to be on a path to recovery and restoration. In order to do that, you need to address your underlying, unmet needs. The problem is most people don't know where to turn to or how to start which makes you feel frustrated and stuck. This leads some to want to quit. We believe in your resilience and the possibility of reclaiming a life marked by strength, growth, and renewed hope.

We understand that overcoming trauma is a cognitive processing journey that requires personalized care, empathy, and a safe space for healing. Together, we can navigate this journey toward healing, ensuring that you not only survive but thrive in the aftermath of trauma.