Acute Stress Reaction

Acute stress reaction is a transient disorder appearing within minutes of an exceptional physical/psychological stressor and resolving within hours to a few days. Clinical: dissociation, numbing, hyperarousal, anxiety, confusion, and/or withdrawal, in response to a traumatic event. It resolves spontaneously in most. Treatment: immediate support, safety, debriefing, and crisis care; monitor for later PTSD.

Common Symptoms

Dissociation/numbing; hyperarousal; anxiety; confusion; withdrawal; occurring immediately after extreme stress; rapid resolution

Causes and Pathogenesis

An exceptional stressor overwhelms coping resources, producing transient dissociative/anxious arousal that resolves as the threat passes.

Treatment

Immediate safety/support; psychological debriefing; crisis counseling; monitor for later PTSD

Preventive Measures

Immediate crisis support; social support; monitor at-risk individuals.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Psychiatry department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.