Acute stress reaction
Acute Stress Reaction
Acute stress reaction (pronounced: a-kyoot stress ree-ak-shun), also known as psychological shock, is a psychological condition that occurs in response to a terrifying event. It should not be confused with Acute Stress Disorder, which is a psychiatric diagnosis.
Etymology
The term "acute" comes from the Latin word "acutus", meaning sharp or severe. "Stress" is derived from the Latin word "strictus", meaning tight or constricted. "Reaction" comes from the Latin word "reactio", meaning a response or a backlash.
Definition
Acute stress reaction is characterized by a set of symptoms that may occur in an individual who has been exposed to a traumatic event. The symptoms typically include a sense of numbing or detachment, reduced awareness of one's surroundings, derealization, depersonalization, and temporary memory loss surrounding the event.
Symptoms
Symptoms of acute stress reaction can vary greatly among individuals, but they typically include:
- Emotional symptoms such as fear, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, or sadness
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, chest pain, stomach upset, and difficulty breathing
- Cognitive symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, or difficulty concentrating
- Behavioral symptoms such as avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event, social withdrawal, or disrupted sleep patterns
Related Terms
Treatment
Treatment for acute stress reaction typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals manage their symptoms and cope with the traumatic event. Medications such as anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants may also be prescribed.
See Also
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