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Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is a mental health illness that arises right after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic incident, such as a catastrophic accident, physical assault, natural disaster, or life-threatening event. Symptoms usually begin a few days after the injury and extend from three days to one month. If symptoms persist for more than one month, the illness might evolve into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

People with Acute Stress Disorder endure intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and extreme emotional pain associated with the traumatic event. They could be emotionally numb, unable to recall key elements of the event, or dissociated from reality. Other typical symptoms are anxiety, anger, difficulty concentrating, sleep difficulties, and avoidance of reminders of the event.
Children and teens may display ASD in various ways, such as being clingy, changing their behavior, being scared, or doing repeated play associated with the traumatic event. Early detection is vital, as prompt management can lessen the potential for long-term psychological consequences.

Treatment usually includes psychological first aid, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), stress management strategies, relaxation exercises, and emotional support from family and healthcare providers. Sometimes medicines are used to aid with extreme anxiety or sleep issues. Fortunately, most people recover well with rapid treatment and compassionate care and restore mental health and confidence.