Stressihäiret

Stressihäiret, or stress disorder in English, refers to a group of mental health conditions that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. These disorders are characterized by a range of distressing symptoms that significantly impact an individual's daily functioning.

The most well-known stress disorder is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD typically include re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares, avoiding reminders of the trauma, negative changes in thinking and mood, and heightened arousal such as irritability or difficulty sleeping. Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) shares many similarities with PTSD but occurs within the first month after the traumatic event. If symptoms persist beyond a month, ASD may develop into PTSD.

Other stress-related disorders include Adjustment Disorders, which are emotional or behavioral responses to identifiable stressors that are not life-threatening. These can manifest as sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, or behavioral disturbances. The specific symptoms and their severity depend on the individual, the nature of the stressor, and their coping mechanisms.

Treatment for stress disorders often involves psychotherapy, such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to manage symptoms like anxiety or depression. Early intervention and support are crucial for recovery and preventing the long-term effects of these conditions.