Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)

Definition

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is a psychological disorder that occurs in response to experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It involves the presence of intrusive and distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety within one month of the traumatic event.

Related terms

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

A psychological disorder that shares similar symptoms with ASD but lasts longer than one month.

Exposure Therapy:

A treatment approach for ASD that involves confronting feared situations or memories related to the traumatic event in order to reduce anxiety over time.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

A treatment approach for ASD that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with the trauma.