Acute stress disorder is a short-term anxiety disorder triggered
by a traumatic, life-threatening event that causes a reaction of fear,
helplessness, or horror.
Symptoms include feeling numb, reliving the event through
disturbing memories or dreams, and avoiding anything that may be a reminder of
the event. Symptoms are so intense that they disrupt daily activities like
going to work and interacting with other people. After the event, the symptoms must last for at least 2 days but can last up to 4 weeks. Symptoms that last longer
than 1 month are called post-traumatic stress disorder.
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Steven Locke, MD - Psychiatry
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.