The Acute Stress Disorder: Treatments, Causes and Prevention Tips

Acute stress disorder is a mental disorder that results from experiencing or witnessing Trauma . ASD is characterised by intrusive memories and flashbacks as well as numbing emotions, avoidance or reminders of trauma, increased anxiety, and numbing. ASD can develop within 4 weeks after a traumatic event. It may last for up to a month. It can cause long-term mental problems such as posttraumatic stress disorder ( Ptsd ) if it is not treated.

What's Acute Stress Disorder?

Acute Stress Disorder is an anxiety disorder which develops after a trauma. Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is characterised by extreme fear, helplessness or horror as a result of the trauma. ASD can cause intrusive thoughts, flashbacks and numbing emotions. ASD symptoms must be present for no less than three days, and not more than one month following the trauma.

The National Institutes of Mental Health, (NIMH) estimates that approximately 3. 6 percent of Americans will experience ASD in their lifetimes. The estimates can vary depending on other factors and the populations being studied. One study showed that ASD prevalence was up to 13. 5 percent among Iraqi and Afghan veterans.

The Common Acute Stress Disorders

ASD is most commonly caused by trauma such as Physical, emotional, or sexual assault. ASD can also be caused by medical procedures, the unexpected death or severe illness of a family member, and violence. ASD may also occur in the wake of trauma.

• Natural disasters like earthquakes and floods as well as hurricanes
• Assault on the body, including domestic violence and sexual assault
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Combat
• Torture and abuse
• Terrorism
• The unexpected death of a beloved one
• Violent acts
• Severe illness

There are common Treatment s for acute stress disorders

Psychotherapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Exposure Therapy are the most successful treatments for ASD. They help people deal with trauma and reduce their symptoms. You may also need medication to manage symptoms like anxiety, Insomnia , Depression .

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: CBT (Cognitual Behavioral Therapy) is a form of therapy that assists individuals in identifying and challenging negative thoughts and behavior that can cause distress. ASD can be helped by CBT, which helps individuals to process trauma and decrease distress symptoms.
• Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing: This type of psychotherapy uses bilateral stimulation such as eye movements to aid in the processing and understanding of trauma memories.
• Exposure Therapy is one type of CBT. It involves the exposure to a traumatic memory, or other situation, in a controlled and safe environment. It can be used to help people face their fears and lessen their anxiety.
• Treatment: ASD symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia and depression can all be treated with medication.

Views of Experts and Professionals on Acute Stress Disorder

ASD sufferers need to be treated quickly according to experts and professionals. According to the American Psychological Association, individuals should seek help within 3 months after a traumatizing event. Because the sooner someone seeks treatment, the greater their chances of recovering from trauma.

Evidence-based therapies such as exposure therapy, CBT and EMDR have been shown to be effective in the treatment of ASD. After eight weeks, 76% of the participants had no symptoms. A second study showed that people who had received CBT were more likely to overcome ASD than those who didn't.

Natural Remedies for Stress and Prevention Tips

ASD can be managed and prevented by using natural methods and tips. Self-care includes getting enough sleep and relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, exercise and regular physical activity. It is possible to limit alcohol or drug consumption and seek support from family and friends.

• Take care of yourself by exercising, sleeping well, and eating healthy.
• Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation are good options.
• Ask for support from family and friends.
• Reduce your alcohol intake and use of drugs.
• If you need professional assistance,
• To manage stress, you need to learn coping strategies.
• Avoid situations which could cause symptoms.

If left untreated, acute stress disorder can lead to serious and long-lasting consequences. It is important to get help as soon as possible in order to prevent the development more severe mental disorders. Psychotherapy and medication can be effective for reducing symptoms and improving function. There are many natural ways to manage ASD and avoid it.

Acute Stress Disorder, in short, is an anxiety disorder that occurs after a trauma. This disorder is marked by extreme fear, helplessness or terror in the aftermath of the event. Natural disasters, emotional trauma, sexual assault, vehicle accidents, combat and torture, terrorist acts, or unexpected deaths of loved ones are all common Causes . There are many treatment options available, including medication and psychotherapy. Preventing more severe mental disorders is possible by early intervention.