Clínica VivaldiFree call

Home · Resources · Disorders A–Z · Acute stress disorder

Trauma and stress

Acute stress disorder

PTSD-like symptoms (intrusive memories, avoidance, alertness, sense of unreality) between three days and one month after the trauma.

Common signs

Relives the eventFeels dazed or disconnectedCan't sleep or relax

Tips

For you

  1. Look for safety, rest and close support
  2. Don't force yourself to talk about it if you don't want to
  3. Get help if it doesn't improve within a few weeks

For family and friends

  1. Offer safety, rest and company
  2. Respect it if they don't want to talk

When to ask for help

  1. If it doesn't improve within a few weeks
  2. If there are thoughts of death: 024

Are you having a really hard time? If you're thinking of harming yourself, call 024 (free, 24 hours) or 112.

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. Since the event I keep reliving what happened
2. I have nightmares
3. I feel dazed or as if in a dream
4. I avoid everything that reminds me of it
5. I can't get to sleep
6. I'm very irritable or on alert
7. I find it hard to concentrate
8. Less than four weeks have passed since the event
Also take the full post-traumatic stress test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guide: Trauma and post-traumatic stressFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Reactive attachment disorderTrauma and stressDisinhibited social engagement disorderTrauma and stressPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Trauma and stressAdjustment disorderTrauma and stress

Would you like to talk it through with a professional?

Book a first appointment with our team of psychologists, in person in Valencia or online from anywhere in Spain. If you're not sure where to start, ask for a free guidance call.

Free callWhatsApp +34 611 07 74 69

Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.