Trauma Disorders
Understanding Trauma Disorders
Trauma disorders, including acute stress disorder (ASD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), typically result from witnessing or experiencing an extremely distressing or catastrophic event, or series of events. The trauma often involves the threat of death or serious injury, such as combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or a sexual assault.
The signs and symptoms of ASD and PTSD are similar. Early recognition and treatment of ASD could help reduce the possibility of ASD developing into PTSD.
Contributing Sources: Canadian Mental Health Association, Mental Health First Aid Canada, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
If you, or someone you know, is having trouble dealing with a traumatic event, get help:
If the situation is NOT immediately critical, you have options:
As applicable, contact the person’s psychiatrist, family doctor (who can prescribe medications and make referrals) or your company’s Employee and Family Assistance Program.
Contact the free Ontario Mental Health Helpline for information and referrals to counselling services and supports in your community:
- By Phone: 1-866-531-2600 (open 24/7)
- Chat online
- Search their online directory