Overview

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term mental health condition that can happen after a traumatic event. This could be an event that threatens you or someone else. Or it could be an event that causes serious injury. Military combat, a car crash, and sexual assault are some examples.

You can get ASD if the event happened to you or to someone you love. And you can get it if you saw the event happen to someone else. People who are exposed to a lot of traumatic events can also get ASD. For instance, it can happen to police officers and health care workers.

When you have ASD, you may feel like you're going through the event again. This is called a flashback. And you may have disturbing memories or dreams about the event. You may also have trouble going to work, keeping appointments, and being social.

ASD is treated with counselling. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common type of counselling for this condition. Sometimes medicines are used to treat ASD.

Symptoms of ASD last less than 1 month. If your symptoms last longer than a month, then you may have another condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be sure to go to your counselling sessions and any follow-up appointments.
• Follow healthy habits. For example, get plenty of rest and exercise every day. And eat a variety of foods.
• Avoid drinking and using drugs.
• Find ways to relax. For example, you could try deep breathing exercises or yoga. Or try getting acupuncture or a massage.
• Connect with others. Seek out friends and family for support.
• If your doctor prescribed medicine, take it as directed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Keep track of your symptoms. Let your doctor know if they don't go away after 1 month.