Acute stress affects people differently – All stress is a mix of environment and perception. As a result, people are able to shrug off some threats and close encounters easily, whereas other threats are harder and may have a greater negative effect.
Dr. Mike Dadson observes:
4 Factors that play a role in your ability to tolerate stress include but are not limited to:
- Frequency
- Personal history
- Current situation
- The response of others and the reactions of the individual
10 Effects of Acute Stress
- Panic attacks
- Social Isolation, avoidance of friends and family
- Difficulty sleeping
- Flashbacks
- Pain in your chest, or a feeling of your heart pounding or racing
- High Blood Pressure
- Stomach pains, digestive issues
- Weekend immune system
- Lack of interest in your life
- Feelings of irritability
Dr. Michael Dadson relates:
Individual resiliencies to stress is like armour. We all have our strengths and vulnerable spots. Plus, if we are hammered repeatedly in the same spot sometimes what was our strength becomes a new vulnerability. You may even have flashbacks or replay incidents or even stressful conversations over and over in your head. That can be a sign of acute stress disorder.
If you are experiencing changes in your mood, behaviour, difficulty functioning, and feelings of distress around your work, social or other activities, you could be suffering with a mental health issue. It is important to see a Registered Clinical Counsellor to determine the severity of your issues. When your feelings of depression persist, or if you experience these symptoms for more days than not, or for a minimum period of 6 months, relating to events or activities.
Dr. Mike Dadson on Acute Stress and Trauma