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Acute Stress Disorder Treatment in Los Angeles

Welcome to Conscious Health & Wellness Center – your sanctuary for mental well-being in Los Angeles, CA. Have you experienced a traumatic event and you cannot find your way past the damaging effects it caused in your life? You may have what is called Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and need professional treatment to help overcome it. If you find yourself grappling with the weight of acute stress disorder, it’s important to recognize that you are not alone on this path, and that treatment is available. Our dedicated team is here to illuminate your journey and provide you with the expert care you deserve. You can overcome this frightening and challenging mental health disorder and enjoy the serenity of peace of mind again. touching every aspect of your being.

Table of Contents

What is Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)?​

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and symptoms occur immediately after a person experiences a single traumatic event. The event is typically unexpected, and overwhelming, and the person who experiences it is unable to prevent it or stop it once it begins occurring. In effect, the person finds it so difficult to endure that they cannot return to a normal state of mind once it’s over. When someone develops acute stress disorder, it is not their fault. However, they will need professional treatment to overcome it.

Treatments for Acute Stress Disorder

Psychotherapy Icon

Psychotherapy

Neurofeedback Therapy Icon

Neurofeedback

Vibroacoustic Therapy Icon

Vibroacoustic

Integrative Wellbeing

Mindfulness

What Is the Difference Between PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder?

In navigating the difference between PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder, it’s critical to understand not just the symptoms but an overall look at how the two trauma-related disorders manifest. Understanding these distinctions not only guides effective treatment but also supports the patient’s journey towards recovery. Some of the ways these two challenges differ include:

  • Duration: Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is categorized by the short(er) longevity of trauma-related symptoms in contrast to PTSD, which lasts longer than one month, where ASD sees symptom relief within four weeks.
  • Intensity: ASD symptoms are immediate reactionary symptoms to trauma, which compare to PTSD symptoms very closely. However, these symptoms are not long-term in comparison to PTSD. Even so, ASD symptoms can be very intense and create significant difficulties in daily life and functioning.
  • Progression: If left untreated and symptoms continue beyond 4 weeks, ASD is then diagnosed as PTSD where symptoms endure, treatment becomes more complex, and the daily impact can become much more significant for the person experiencing this disorder. In comparison, PTSD can lead to worsening symptoms impairing life, relationships and can also impact physical health. 

The defining difference between Acute Stress Disorder and PTSD is that ASD is an immediate reaction to trauma, with symptoms manifesting shortly after the event and can resolve within a short time frame,which led to the creation of a DSM Acute Stress criteria in the DSM in 1994 [1], having evolved in 2013 with the updated DSM-5 acute stress disorder criteria [2].

Difference between acute stress disorder and ptsd overview 3 factors Duration of Symptoms: ASD: Symptoms begin within 4 weeks of the traumatic event. PTSD: Symptoms endure for more than a month and can arise after a delay. • Intensity and Resolution: • ASD: Acute, but usually transient reaction to trauma. • PTSD: Persistent symptoms that can severely impact functionality. • Potential for Progression: • If left untreated, ASD can evolve into PTSD if symptoms persist past 4 weeks and impede daily activities. • PTSD is likely to worsen if left untreated and can lead to Depression, Anxiety Disorders and Addiction.
Difference Between Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and PTSD, Conscious Health 2024

Recognizing the Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder​

Someone who has acute stress disorder will experience signs that they are struggling with this troubling condition. The signs typically begin about four weeks after the triggering event. Common symptoms of acute stress disorder to look out for include:

  • Flashbacks and vivid nightmares
  • Intense anxiety and irritability
  • Avoidance of triggers and reminders
  • Difficulty concentrating and sleeping
  • Feelings of Depression
  • Cognitive Difficulties
  • Disassociation
  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Suicidal feelings
If you or someone you know are experiencing acute stress disorder symptoms, it’s important to receive a proper diagnosis. Incorrect treatments can cause more severe symptoms, leading to a heavier impact on social, physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Causes and Triggers of Acute Stress Disorder​​

Acute Stress Disorder doesn’t emerge in isolation; rather, it’s a complex interplay of various factors. Too often, someone who has acute stress disorder does not recognize they have an illness they cannot control. The person may feel they should be able to “get over” something terrible that happened and feel guilty when develop residual damage. They may feel that because not everyone develops acute stress disorder after a traumatizing event, that somehow they are weak, but that’s not true at all. The mind adapts the best it can when faced with trauma, and often the individual ends up needing help from a proven program of therapeutic assistance to move on with their lives.

Common examples of events that trigger acute stress disorder in a person include:

  • Nature of Trauma: The severity and type of traumatic event.​
  • Personal Resilience: Coping mechanisms and past experiences.​
  • Support System: Availability of emotional support post-trauma.​

At Conscious Health & Wellness Center, we’re committed to guiding you on your journey to recovery. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you regain control of your life and find peace amidst these challenges

Effective Treatment Options for Acute Stress Disorder

At Conscious Health Center, we’re committed to guiding you on your journey to recovery. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you regain control of your life and find peace amidst the chaos. We created a safe, loving environment that offers several types of therapy modalities designed to help you overcome acute stress disorder. The types of therapy which are beneficial in treating ASD include:

Neurofeedback or Biofeedback therapy for brunette woman experiencing ASD with EEG

Your Journey
to Resilience

Recovery from ASD is possible. With the right support and tools, you can regain control over your life. Embrace treatment, practice self-care, and lean on your support network – you have the strength to overcome.

Begin Treatment for Acute Stress Disorder in Los Angeles, California

Your mental health is a priority, and it’s important to recognize that seeking help is an act of courage. Acute stress disorder may feel overwhelming, but remember that you have the power to heal here at our comprehensive treatment center in Los Angeles, CA. At Conscious Health Center, we’re dedicated to providing you with the tools, support, and expertise needed to overcome ASD and embrace a life of well-being. Your journey to recovery starts here – take that crucial step today. Start your journey to healing now by contacting us so we can begin a conversation about how to help you heal. Together, we’ll pave the way to a brighter, more resilient future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment duration varies but is often short-term, focusing on equipping you with coping strategies.

While therapy is a primary approach, medication and holistic practices can complement your healing journey.

ASD symptoms can dissipate over time, but seeking professional help accelerates the healing process.

Our compassionate approach, experienced therapists, and evidence-based treatments prioritize your well-being.

Taking the first step is easy – Contact Us today to initiate your journey towards recovery.

Sources

  1. Cardeña, E., & Carlson, E. (2011). Acute stress disorder revisited. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 7, 245-267. doi: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-032210-104502.
    Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21275643/
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016, June). Impact of the DSM-IV to DSM-5 Changes on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville (MD): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). Available from: https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-DSM5ImpactAdultMI-2016.pdf. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519704/table/ch3.t30/

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