Define acute stress disorder.

Acute stress disorder is characterized as a stress reaction that occurs within three days to one month following a traumatic event. This condition can manifest with symptoms such as intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, heightened arousal, and other physical and emotional symptoms that impact daily functioning. It is crucial to recognize that the time frame of symptoms is a defining feature of acute stress disorder, distinguishing it from other stress-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which persists for more than a month. The diagnosis is not limited to a specific age group, which invalidates the choice referring to children. Understanding the timing and nature of the symptoms can help in the early identification and intervention for individuals experiencing acute stress disorder.