1. Seek Professional Help
Acute stress disorder, if it lasts more than a month, becomes characterized as post-traumatic stress disorder. One of the most important ways to reduce the symptoms and frequency of acute stress disorder episodes is to speak to a medical professional, either a psychologist or a psychiatrist. With expertise in the field of acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorders, they are able to help prescribe a rehabilitation program. The treatment length varies from person to person and is based on the severity of the case, but a program of anywhere from six months to a year would not be unheard of.
2. Take Prescribed Medications
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat and reduce the symptoms of acute stress disorder. Several well-known SSRIs such as Paxil, Zoloft, Celexa and Prozac are used frequently for treatment. These medications are all by prescription only and do carry potential side effects, but people being treated for acute stress are typically under regular observation. Those suffering from acute stress disorder who take an SSRI do tend to show great improvement. Coupled with counseling, SSRIs are a often a critical tool.
3. Head to Group Counseling
Group counseling is very often used in conjunction with the help of a medical professional and medication. Group counseling, particularly with those who are suffering from the same triggers of acute stress (combat or rape, for example), can help sufferers understand the physiology of their reaction as well as provide an outlet when they feel overwhelmed by their anxiety. As with medical counseling, group counseling is encouraged on a weekly or even more frequent basis depending on severity. Your medical professional may point you to a specific group counseling center, or you may also be able to find group counseling centers in your area. Some groups are free, but those that are moderated by a medical professional typically carry a cost which some insurance agencies will cover.
