Acute stress disorder may develop shortly after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms can include intrusive memories, heightened alertness, emotional numbness, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.

Early support focuses on stabilizing emotional responses, reducing distress, and strengthening coping skills. Structured care helps individuals process experiences at a manageable pace while promoting resilience and recovery. With timely intervention, symptoms often improve and long term complications can be reduced.