Stressful Events Trigger Physical and Emotional Responses
The types of stress that we face in our day-to-day lives can be dealt with on an as-needed basis. When we have a test to prepare for, we might feel a twinge of nervousness anytime we think about it and we might spend the night before the exam preparing. But once the test is over, we usually feel instant relief. In contrast, the stressful events that trigger symptoms strong enough to be classified as either PTSD or acute stress disorder are unforeseen and traumatic. They might include natural disasters, car accidents, broken bones or severe injuries, being a victim of violence or witnessing violence, struggling with a potentially fatal illness, and more. The symptoms of acute stress disorder or PTSD include:- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Poor concentration
- Problems sleeping
- Recurrent nightmares or flashbacks
- Avoiding people or places that serve as reminders of the stressful event
- Aggression
- Recklessness
- Emotional numbness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
