What is one method for treating acute stress disorder?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the primary and most effective methods for treating acute stress disorder (ASD). This therapeutic approach is designed to help individuals process their trauma and reduce symptoms such as anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and emotional distress. CBT focuses on changing unhelpful thinking patterns, behaviors, and emotional responses that can result from trauma exposure, making it particularly suitable for those experiencing ASD.

The therapy often includes elements such as psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and exposure techniques, enabling individuals to confront and reframe their traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. This structured approach helps patients regain a sense of control and reduces the likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if the symptoms persist beyond the acute phase.

Other treatment options may not directly address the immediate needs and symptoms associated with acute stress disorder as effectively as CBT does. Medications like mood stabilizers are typically not the first line of treatment and may be more beneficial for different conditions. Intensive psychotherapy and long-term hospitalization are generally reserved for severe cases or when a person has ongoing and debilitating symptoms, which is less common in cases of ASD. Thus, CBT’s evidence-based strategies make it the most appropriate method for treating acute stress disorder.