Trauma is a widespread experience. Research shows that about 50 percent of US adults will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. A traumatic event may include a natural disaster like a tornado or hurricane, a car or railway accident, physical or sexual violence, or military combat.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) develops within the first month after a traumatic event and is often marked by symptoms such as dissociation, anxiety, and intrusive memories.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed when trauma symptoms last longer than one month. While dissociative symptoms can occur, they are not required for a PTSD diagnosis.
Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop a stress disorder. However, if you or someone you love is struggling with symptoms of ASD or PTSD, effective evidence-based trauma treatment is available.
Understanding Trauma-Related Disorders
Although trauma-related disorders are often associated with military service, anyone can develop PTSD or ASD after a traumatic experience. Increased awareness and updated mental health terminology help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support earlier.
A Brief History
- During the Civil War, trauma symptoms in veterans were labeled “Soldier’s Heart.”
- In World War I, the term “Shell Shock” was commonly used.
- By World War II, similar symptoms were labeled “Battle Fatigue.”
- PTSD became an official diagnosis in 1980 and now appears in the DSM-5 under “Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders.”
- Today, PTSD is recognized in both civilians and military personnel.
How Common Is PTSD?
PTSD affects more people than many realize. An estimated 3.6 percent of adults in the United States had PTSD in the past year. The lifetime prevalence is 6.8 percent, meaning nearly double that number have experienced PTSD at some point.
Symptom severity is spread across mild, moderate, and severe presentations. Among adolescents, PTSD is more common in females (8 percent) than males (2.3 percent).
PTSD is strongly linked with substance use, especially alcohol-use disorder (AUD). About one in three people with PTSD have struggled with alcohol misuse. This is far higher than the general population, where 10.5 percent of adults have alcohol-use disorder.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosis
Only a licensed clinician can diagnose PTSD using DSM-5 criteria. A PTSD diagnosis generally requires:
- One or more symptoms of re-experiencing the trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive memories, or psychological distress.
- Two or more symptoms of avoidance, such as emotional numbing, withdrawal from others, or lack of interest in activities.
- Two or more symptoms of increased arousal, such as irritability, sleep issues, hypervigilance, trouble concentrating, or an exaggerated startle response.
Acute Stress Disorder Diagnosis
Acute Stress Disorder shares many similarities with PTSD but is shorter in duration. According to the DSM-5, ASD includes:
- Experiencing a traumatic event.
- Intrusive symptoms such as recurrent thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, or intense emotional distress.
- Avoidance of memories or reminders of the trauma.
- Symptoms of anxiety or heightened arousal like irritability, sleep trouble, or hypervigilance.
ASD is sometimes debated, but recognizing early symptoms can help people get support before symptoms worsen.
ASD vs PTSD Comparison
The main difference between ASD and PTSD is timing:
- ASD symptoms last at least two days but no more than thirty days after the event.
- PTSD is diagnosed only when symptoms persist longer than thirty days.
If a loved one begins showing emotional changes, detachment, or anxiety shortly after trauma, prompt screening for ASD can be helpful.
Treatment Approaches for ASD and PTSD
Trauma-related disorders often occur alongside alcohol-use disorder (AUD) or substance-use disorder (SUD). Many people turn to substances to numb or avoid distressing memories.
Managing trauma symptoms alone is extremely difficult. Professional support can provide structured, evidence-based care using proven trauma therapies to treat ASD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders.
Common therapy options include:
If you or someone you love is struggling with trauma symptoms or a co-occurring substance-use disorder, getting help early can make a life-changing difference.
Our team believes in individualized, evidence-based care. With multiple levels of treatment, from outpatient programs to structured therapy sessions, we help clients build long-term recovery and emotional stability.
Get Expert Trauma Treatment in Houston
If you’re experiencing symptoms of ASD, PTSD, or co-occurring substance use, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our licensed clinicians provide evidence-based trauma therapy designed to help you heal safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acute Stress Disorder the same as PTSD?
No. Acute Stress Disorder occurs within the first thirty days after a traumatic event, while PTSD is diagnosed only when symptoms last longer than one month.
Can ASD turn into PTSD?
Yes. Some people who experience ASD go on to develop PTSD if symptoms persist beyond thirty days or worsen without treatment.
What is the most effective treatment for PTSD?
Evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-focused psychotherapy are most effective for PTSD.
Can PTSD and substance use occur together?
Yes. Many people with PTSD develop alcohol-use or substance-use disorder as a way to cope. Treating both together leads to better outcomes.
When should someone seek help for trauma symptoms?
If symptoms interfere with daily life, functioning, sleep, relationships, or emotional well-being, it is important to seek a professional evaluation as soon as possible.
