Acute stress reaction: the first days after a shock
एक्यूट स्ट्रेस रिएक्शन (सदमे के तुरंत बाद की प्रतिक्रिया)
After a frightening event, most people have strong reactions for hours to days: shock, fear, tearfulness, poor sleep. This is a normal response to an abnormal event.
Support, safety and rest help most people recover naturally. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, PTSD should be considered.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Feeling dazed, numb or detached
- Intrusive memories, nightmares
- Shaking, palpitations, startling easily
- Trouble sleeping and concentrating
Causes
- Road accidents, assault, violence, disasters, sudden death of a loved one, medical emergencies
Risk factors
- Physical injury, threat to life, previous trauma
- Lack of support afterwards
How it is diagnosed
- Clinical assessment of symptoms in relation to the event and their course over days to weeks
- Medical check of injuries, head injury or substance use
Classification: ICD-10 F43.0 · ICD-11 QE84ICD-11 treats acute stress reaction as a normal response (in the chapter on factors influencing health), not a mental disorder.
Treatment options
- 1Psychological first aid: safety, calm, connection with loved ones and practical help
- 2Short-term help with sleep if severe
- 3Monitoring for PTSD, depression or substance use
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Brief trauma-focused CBT if symptoms persist beyond a few weeks
- Forced, detailed "debriefing" soon after the event is not recommended
Guidance for family
- Be present; let the person talk if and when they want
- Help with practical tasks and routine
When to see a psychiatrist
- Symptoms continue beyond about a month
- Unable to function, using alcohol to cope, or thoughts of self-harm
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to feel this way after an accident?
Yes. Strong reactions in the first days are common and usually settle.
Should I talk about every detail immediately?
Only if you want to. Rest, safety and support come first.
When does it become PTSD?
If symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance and hyperarousal continue for several weeks and affect life.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.