What is acute stress disorder?

Acute stress disorder is characterized by the emergence of symptoms similar to those seen in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but occurs shortly after a traumatic event, lasting for a duration that does not exceed one month. Individuals with acute stress disorder may experience flashbacks, dissociation, hyper-vigilance, and anxiety, all within this short timeframe following the traumatic exposure. This condition serves as a critical diagnostic category that acknowledges the immediate psychological effects of trauma, which can differ from the long-term manifestations of PTSD that are diagnosed when symptoms persist for more than a month. Understanding this distinction is important for appropriate intervention and treatment.