While there is a common misconception that stress-related disorders only impact members of the military or law enforcement, they can affect anyone at any life stage. Two conditions associated with trauma are Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While they share many similarities, distinguishing between them is key for proper diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the differences between ASD and PTSD can help individuals seek timely support and intervention, stopping the cycle of distressing trauma responses.
What Is Acute Stress Disorder?
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is a short-term psychological response to a traumatic event. Symptoms of this condition usually appear within days of experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, an accident, violence, illness or injury.
Common Symptoms of ASD Include:
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Flashbacks or recurring memories
- Avoiding things, people, or places that serve as reminders of the traumatic event
- Increased anxiety and being overly focused on one’s environment
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
ASD symptoms last between three days and one month after the traumatic event. If symptoms last longer than this, a PTSD diagnosis may be considered. Getting help early on is important though, one study found that over 80% of those with ASD would progress to PTSD in a six-month timeframe.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops when trauma-related symptoms continue for more than a month and significantly impair daily life. Unlike ASD, which occurs shortly after trauma, PTSD typically develops within three months of the traumatic event, but it can appear later as well.
Common Symptoms of PTSD Include:
- Recurring flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoiding things associated with the traumatic event
- Feeling down or negative overall
- Key Differences Between ASD and PTSD
The key difference between ASD and PTSD is that ASD has a faster onset, sometimes just days after the traumatic event. PTSD symptoms typically appear later and last longer.
Both conditions are marked by flashbacks, memories of the traumatic event, turning inward or avoiding others, and a generally low mood. Stress is also known to negatively impact physical health, causing issues from physical aches and pains to trouble sleeping. This stress can lead to other physical symptoms like sweating and an increased heart rate.
Those who suffer from these conditions are impacted by them on a daily basis. Flashbacks, anxiety, and feeling down overall can impact one’s ability to connect with others or concentrate at work or school.
Types of Trauma
It is important to understand that trauma can stem from a wide array of events or circumstances. This includes auto accidents, the birth of a child, bullying, and many others. No trauma is more or less serious than another and what is critical is ensuring that individuals are provided the time and resources needed to heal.
Risk Factors of ASD and PTSD
Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing ASD or PTSD. Having a history of trauma exposure can increase a person’s chances of developing these conditions. Other mental health or substance abuse issues can also contribute to the development of ASD and PTSD. When a person has two or more conditions at the same time, it is often referred to as having a co-occurring condition in the mental health space.
Preventing ASD and PTSD
Proactive treatment for existing mental health conditions can reduce the risk of ASD or PTSD developing. Additionally, beginning quality therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, soon after a traumatic event can be helpful in keeping these conditions from developing. Psychological first aid (PFA) is also very promising as it provides those who have experienced trauma with flexible tools that are focused on psychoeducation rather than therapy. This can be very effective for those who may be hesitant to start therapy.
Diagnosing ASD and PTSD
Mental health professionals diagnose ASD and PTSD based on criteria outlined in the DSM-5. While these conditions have many similarities, there are key differences that must be identified to determine the best treatment plan. The major difference between ASD and PSTD is the timeline of symptoms starting after a traumatic event and how long they last.
Key differences that can help make a diagnosis include:
- ASD Diagnosis:
- This diagnosis requires at least nine symptoms (which could include issues sleeping, upsetting dreams about the event, mental distress when thinking about the event) be present.
- A provider will also want to rule out any physical causes for these symptoms prior to making a diagnosis.
- PTSD Diagnosis:
- PTSD lasts longer than ASD and can occur at any point after a traumatic event, so the timeline for a diagnosis is much broader.
- PTSD symptoms are grouped into clusters. To make a diagnosis, a clinician must assign symptoms to appropriate clusters and then tally them.
- A PTSD diagnosis includes a broader array of emotions, not just fear. These emotions can include feeling alone, risky behaviors, and others.
When seeking a diagnosis for this or any other mental health condition, it is important to work with a mental health professional to ensure a proper diagnosis. This professional will have the tools, insight, and training to guide you and your loved one through the diagnostic process; helping to find appropriate treatment and next steps.
Treatment Options for ASD and PTSD
There are several treatment options available for those who have ASD or PTSD. These options give patients the opportunity to try different types of therapy to see what works best for them. Because ASD can progress to PTSD, it is important to seek help early on.
Acute Stress Treatment can include:
- Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT):Helps process traumatic experiences and reduce avoidance behaviors. This type of therapy focuses on understanding the condition and trauma responses, recognizing and reframing negative thoughts and feelings, as well as finding ways to manage symptoms.
- Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy is an important component of the TF-CBT process. During exposure therapy, the therapist and patient will agree to and outline the parameters of the exposure beforehand. They will then gradually expose the patient to things that cause them stress or fear, working with them to utilize healthy coping skills to manage these feelings.
- Medications: Some medications might be helpful, but more research is needed in this field.
PTSD Therapy Options can Include:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This type of therapy helps individuals to reprocess upsetting and traumatic memories with the guidance of a therapist. The therapist uses a light bar or their hand to create a pattern of movements for patients to follow along with as they think about the upsetting memory.
- Medication: Some medications like antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can be helpful for those with PTSD. These medications can help to reduce symptoms which can make therapy more effective.
- Group Therapy and Peer Support: Sharing feelings and experiences with a group of people who understand these emotions can be beneficial for many.
Importance of Seeking Professional Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of ASD or PTSD, seeking professional help is essential. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and improve quality of life. Breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging open conversations can help those struggling feel less alone.
Seeking Help for ASD and PTSD
Recognizing the differences between ASD and PTSD is vital for effective treatment and recovery. While ASD is a short-term response to trauma, PTSD involves prolonged distress that requires targeted intervention. Seeking timely professional support can lead to better mental health outcomes. If you or a loved one is struggling with stress-related disorders, reach out to the team at SunCloud today.
