Breaking Down the Similarities Of Acute Stress Disorder vs. PTSD
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are both reactions to scary or dangerous experiences, but they happen at different times.
ASD
ASD happens right after the event, lasting from a few days up to a month. People with ASD might feel scared, have bad dreams, or keep thinking about what happened.
PTSD
PTSD lasts longer, often starting a month or more after the event. PTSD can cause similar feelings and problems as ASD, but it's more severe and can last for months, years, or even a lifetime.
- Physical or sexual assault
- Natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires)
- Combat exposure
- Terrorist attacks
- Serious accidents (e.g., car accidents, plane crashes)
- Life-threatening illness or injury
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Witnessing violence or death
- A sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one
- Traumatic childbirth experience
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic experiences
- Avoidance of places, people, or situations that may remind the person of the traumatic event
- Hyperarousal, or heightened sensitivity to potential danger or threat
- Hypervigilance, constantly scanning the environment for potential danger
- Feeling on edge or easily startled
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Negative thoughts or feelings, such as guilt, shame, or hopelessness
- Detachment or feeling emotionally numb
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Intrusive memories, thoughts, or flashbacks of the traumatic event
- Nightmares or recurring dreams about the traumatic event
- Avoidance of places, people, or situations that may remind the person of the traumatic event
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Hypervigilance or constantly being on guard for potential danger
- Easily startled or irritable
- Negative thoughts or feelings, such as guilt, shame, or hopelessness
- Detachment or feeling emotionally numb
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Physiological reactions, such as rapid heart rate or sweating, when reminded of the traumatic event
- Dissociative symptoms
- Hyperarousal symptoms
and Acute Stress Disorder (ASD); what's the real difference? Both terms often swirl around in discussions about trauma. But many get them mixed up. Let's clear the confusion. In this blog, we dive deep into both conditions.
We'll highlight their similarities. Why should you listen? Because understanding is key. It helps victims. It guides support systems. By the end, you'll grasp the nuances between Acute Stress Disorder and PTSD. Ready to embark on this enlightening journey? Let's get started.
How is acute stress disorder vs. PTSD similar?
ASD and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are similar. This means they both happen when someone has a bad experience. Both of them have intrusive symptoms that make the person have bad thoughts, not want to do things, and be really anxious.
Both anxiety disorders can make it hard for people to carry on with their daily life. These disorders can also make it harder for people to enjoy life. [1]
Prevalence of Traumatic Events and PTSD
Many people face tough events in their lives. About 61% of men and 51% of women have gone through at least one.
But not everyone who goes through a tough event gets PTSD. Only about 8% of people do. Women (10.4%) get PTSD more often than men (5%). This means other things decide who gets PTSD after a tough event.[2]
Breaking the Stigma and Misconceptions Surrounding ASD and PTSD
Many people don't understand Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There are wrong ideas and shame about these problems. It's important to correct these wrong ideas to help people with ASD or PTSD. Here are some common wrong ideas about them and how to fix them.
Misconception #1: ASD and PTSD only affect weak or fragile people.
Fact: Anyone can get ASD or PTSD. It doesn't matter how strong you are. Bad things like storms, accidents, fights, or violence can cause it.
Misconception #2: ASD and PTSD are signs of weakness or failure.
Fact: ASD and PTSD come from facing bad events. They are not because someone is weak or did something wrong. People with these problems didn't cause them.
Misconception #3: People with ASD or PTSD are dangerous or unpredictable.
Fact: People with ASD or PTSD are not automatically dangerous. Even if they are on edge or get upset easily, they aren't more violent than others without these problems.
Misconception #4: ASD and PTSD are rare conditions that only affect a small percentage of people.
Fact: A lot of people worldwide have ASD or PTSD. In the U.S., 8 million adults get PTSD each year. Many others have had hard times that could lead to ASD or PTSD. [13]
Overcoming Stigma and Misconceptions
To help people understand ASD and PTSD better, we need to show care, kindness, and knowledge. Here are some ways to do that:
- Learn about ASD and PTSD: what they are, their signs, and how to help. Knowing more can help you be there for people who have them.
- Use Empathetic Language: Don't use mean words when talking about ASD or PTSD. Use kind and understanding words instead.
- Challenge Stigma and Misconceptions: Speak out against stigma and misconceptions about ASD and PTSD. Correct misinformation when you encounter it and challenge stereotypes and prejudices.
- Be a Supportive Listener: If you know someone with ASD or PTSD, listen to them. Don't judge. Be kind and tell them about ways they can get help.
- Advocate for Change: Push for rules that help people know more about ASD or PTSD. Get money and help for those with these problems. Join organizations that work to promote mental health and reduce stigma. [14]
Causes of acute stress disorder & PTSD
When something scary or bad happens, our brain can get affected too. It makes us feel like we need to run away or fight. This can cause different physical and mental problems in people with anxiety, panic disorder or PTSD.
Traumatic events can cause both ASD and PTSD, including:
- Physical or sexual assault
- Natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires)
- Combat exposure
- Terrorist attacks
- Serious accidents (e.g., car accidents, plane crashes)
- Life-threatening illness or injury
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Witnessing violence or death
- A sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one
- Traumatic childbirth experience [2] [3]
Triggers of acute stress disorder and PTSD
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic experiences
- Avoidance of places, people, or situations that may remind the person of the traumatic event
- Hyperarousal, or heightened sensitivity to potential danger or threat
- Hypervigilance, constantly scanning the environment for potential danger
- Feeling on edge or easily startled
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Negative thoughts or feelings, such as guilt, shame, or hopelessness
- Detachment or feeling emotionally numb
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed [4]
Acute stress disorder and PTSD symptoms
ASD and PTSD are a bit alike. The big difference is how long they last. ASD symptoms last from 3 days to a month. PTSD lasts more than a month.
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Nightmares or recurring dreams about the traumatic event
- Avoidance of places, people, or situations that may remind the person of the traumatic event
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Hypervigilance or constantly being on guard for potential danger
- Easily startled or irritable
- Negative thoughts or feelings, such as guilt, shame, or hopelessness
- Detachment or feeling emotionally numb
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Physiological reactions, such as rapid heart rate or sweating, when reminded of the traumatic event
- Dissociative symptoms
- Hyperarousal symptoms [5] [6]
Diagnosis of ASD and PTSD
ASD and PTSD are diagnoses made by a doctor who specializes in mental health. They are called psychiatrists or psychologists. The review may include an assessment of the individual's symptoms, medical history, and any past trauma.
The DSM-5 provides specific diagnostic criteria for both disorders. A mental health professional will use certain rules to decide if someone has ASD or PTSD. These rules help them know if the person meets the requirements for these conditions. [7] [8]
Treatment for ASD and PTSD
Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a way to help people who have had bad experiences. It can help them to think differently and do different things, so they don't feel so bad.
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) uses eye movements to help people deal with bad memories.
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) helps individuals process traumatic memories through guided eye movements.
- Group therapy lets people talk and get comfort from others who faced the same tough times.
- Mindfulness activities like meditation and yoga can help people deal with stress and stay in control of their emotions.
- Family therapy can help improve communication and support between family members.
- Art therapy helps people show and work through feelings about the bad event.
- Treatments like acupuncture or massage can help with stress and make you feel calm. [9]
Medication
- Antidepressant medications or anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. [11]
Self-Care activities
- You should do physical activities like walking, running, and swimming every day.
- Do things to help you relax, like taking deep breaths, sitting quietly with your eyes closed, or doing yoga.
- Spend time in nature or engage in outdoor activities.
- Eat healthy foods and don't use drugs or drink too much alcohol.
- Establish a regular sleep routine and practice good sleep hygiene.
- Connect with supportive friends or family members.
- Engage in creative or expressive activities like art, music, or writing.
- Practice mindfulness and being present at the moment.
- Take breaks or time off when needed to prevent burnout or overload.
Coping strategies for ASD and PTSD
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery.
- Playing sports or running can make your body feel good and take away stress.
- Use grounding techniques, such as focusing on the present moment or using sensory cues, to manage intrusive thoughts or flashbacks.
- Establish a regular sleep routine and practice good sleep hygiene.
- Seek social support from friends, family, or support groups.
- Take care of yourself by doing things like taking a warm bath or listening to calming music.
- Use positive self-talk and challenge negative thoughts.
- Set realistic goals and celebrate achievements.
- Use humor or engage in enjoyable activities to improve mood and reduce stress. [11]
Conclusion
If you have trouble with ASD or PTSD, talk to mental health professionals who know about them. They can give you the right help.
Act fast if you have ASD or PTSD. Don't deal with it alone. Talk below and share your story. What you say can help others like you.
FAQ
What is the difference between acute stress disorder and PTSD?
ASD is when someone feels scared for a short time after a bad event. PTSD is when that scared feeling lasts a long time, even years, after the event.
Is there a difference between the treatments for the two disorders?
Acute stress disorder and PTSD are two different things. They need different kinds of help. It is a good idea to talk to a mental health professional who can make a plan just for you.
References
- URMC: Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post Traumatic
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA: POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
- The Recovery Village: Acute Stress Disorder
- University of Rochester Medical Center Rochester: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Weill Cornell Medicine; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- The Recovery Village: Acute Stress Disorder
- MODULE 5: TRAUMA- AND STRESSOR-RELATED DISORDERS
- Acute Stress Disorder - Alexander H. Jordan
- Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment
- Trends in Medication Prescribing in Patients With PTSD From 2009 to 2018: A National Veterans Administration Study
- How to Overcome Your PTSD Triggers - Red Oak Recovery
- How to Overcome Your PTSD Triggers - Red Oak Recovery
- Samsha: Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services
⚠️ Disclaimer: The content of this video is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Consult a qualified health professional for any medical concerns.