Acute Stress Disorder No Longer Considered a Predictor of PTSD

By Dr. Lane, Thu, December 30, 2010

For many years, mental health professionals believed that acute stress disorder was a strong predictor of PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder). But researchers no longer see it as such. In fact, it is not a good predictor at all.

One of the primary differences between acute stress disorder and PTSD is the timeframe of symptoms following a traumatic event. Acute stress disorder pertains to the initial symptoms experienced within the first 30 days, whereas PTSD pertains to symptoms that occur after 30 days have passed.

Many different factors, such as the degree of social support, can determine whether or not a person develops PTSD rather than adapts after a traumatic event. This makes it very difficult to predict PTSD.

Acute stress disorder will still be included in the DSM-V, the newest edition of the DSM which will be released in 2013. It's purpose for being there, however, will be different now, according to Dr. Richard A. Bryant of the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.

Interestingly, aspects of the U.S. health care system are apparently playing a significant role in the decision to keep the acute stress disorder diagnosis in the newest version of the DSM, according to Dr. Bryant.

Dr. Bryant's systematic review of several studies on acute stress disorder was published in the December 14th online Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

Read more: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/734905 and http://article.psychiatrist.com/dao_1-login.asp?ID=10007195&RSID=58866011422152

Free Treatment Assessment
Call Now—Help Available 24/7 (877) 331-9311

OCD Self Test

Do you or a loved one feel like you might have a problem with OCD?
Take the Self Test now to get more information.

Sponsored Links

The information provided on brainphysics.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of brainphysics.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Click here to read our complete Terms of Use.