Experiencing trauma can leave deep emotional and physical imprints. For some people, these effects surface quickly and disrupt everyday life. That is why timely and compassionate acute stress disorder treatment in Boulder can make a meaningful difference. Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term but intense psychological reaction to trauma that can cause intrusive memories, emotional numbness, and heightened anxiety.
If you are feeling overwhelmed after a traumatic event, know that support is available. At Flatirons Recovery, we offer trauma-informed care designed to restore balance and promote healing from the inside out.
What Is Acute Stress Disorder?
Acute stress disorder is a mental health condition triggered by trauma. Symptoms typically begin within three days of the event and may last up to one month. While similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ASD is distinguished by its shorter duration. Without intervention, it can progress into PTSD.
Symptoms may include:
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Dissociation or feeling disconnected from reality
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Sleep disturbances and nightmares
- Emotional numbness or irritability
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
Flatirons Recovery offers ASD treatment in Boulder that addresses both the immediate effects and long-term risks of unresolved trauma. Early support leads to better outcomes.
How Is ASD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing acute stress disorder involves a clinical evaluation by a licensed mental health professional. The diagnostic criteria, as defined by the DSM-5, require the presence of at least nine symptoms from five distinct categories: intrusion, negative mood, dissociation, avoidance, and arousal. These symptoms must occur following a traumatic event and last for a minimum of three days but less than four weeks.
At Flatirons Recovery, our acute stress disorder treatment in Boulder begins with a thorough diagnostic assessment. Our clinicians use comprehensive interviews and standardized screening tools to identify symptoms accurately and develop an individualized treatment plan. Early and precise diagnosis is essential for preventing complications such as PTSD or co-occurring substance use disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
ASD may develop following events that are overwhelming, unexpected, or life-threatening. Common causes include:
- Physical or sexual assault
- Natural disasters
- Car accidents or serious injuries
- Sudden loss of a loved one
- Military combat or first-responder trauma
- Witnessing violence
Risk factors that may increase vulnerability to ASD include:
- A history of trauma or adverse childhood experiences
- Previous mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
- Lack of emotional support or social connection
- A perceived sense of helplessness during the event
At Flatirons Recovery, our treatment for acute stress disorder takes these individual risk factors into account. Our goal is not only to reduce symptoms but to address the deeper impact of trauma in a personalized, compassionate way.
Understanding the Link Between ASD and Substance Abuse
In the aftermath of trauma, many individuals attempt to self-soothe through substances. This connection between acute stress disorder and substance abuse is well-established. Alcohol, prescription drugs, or illicit substances may temporarily dull emotional pain or assist with sleep, but in the long term, they can worsen distress and create dependency.
Our facility offers integrated care for co-occurring conditions. By treating ASD and substance use together, we help individuals break the cycle of avoidance and build sustainable emotional regulation strategies. This dual-diagnosis approach ensures that both disorders are treated in tandem, rather than in isolation.
Our Approach to ASD Treatment
At Flatirons Recovery, we view trauma recovery as a holistic journey. Our treatment for ASD incorporates both clinical expertise and experiential healing methods. Every treatment plan is customized based on a client’s history, symptom severity, and personal goals.
We offer multiple levels of care to support individuals wherever they are in their healing journey:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our PHP offers intensive, trauma-informed care five days a week, including therapy, psychiatric support, and holistic practices. It is ideal for those needing structured treatment without full hospitalization.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
The IOP combines flexible scheduling with trauma-focused therapy, group support, and mindfulness-based care. It is designed for clients ready to heal while maintaining daily routines.
Outpatient and Continuing Care
For clients transitioning out of intensive programs, we provide ongoing outpatient services. These sessions focus on maintaining progress, strengthening support networks, and preventing symptom recurrence.
Holistic and Experiential Therapies
At Flatirons Recovery, we recognize that true healing involves the mind, body, and spirit. Our services are designed to address the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of trauma.
Individual Therapy
Licensed clinicians use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address trauma-related symptoms, regulate emotions, and process distressing memories.
Mindfulness and Somatic Practices
We integrate meditation, yoga, and breathing techniques to help clients reconnect with their bodies and regulate the nervous system. These tools are especially effective for those experiencing dissociation or hyperarousal.
Creative and Expressive Modalities
Art and music therapy offer alternative paths for expression, particularly for individuals who struggle to verbalize trauma. These practices promote self-discovery and emotional release.
Nutritional Counseling
Trauma can affect appetite, digestion, and energy. Our wellness team supports physical recovery through nutritional education and individualized meal planning.
Dual Diagnosis: ASD and Substance Use Treatment
When acute stress disorder and substance use occur together, integrated care is essential. Our dual-diagnosis program treats both conditions together to ensure a cohesive path to recovery. This is done through a combination of psychiatric support, evidence-based therapies, and relapse prevention strategies.
Clients learn to regulate emotions, manage triggers, and explore the roots of both trauma and substance use. By targeting the interplay between acute stress disorder and substance abuse, we help individuals build a foundation for lasting recovery and renewed well-being.
The Flatirons Recovery Difference: Trauma-Informed and Client-Centered
Our team is committed to trauma-informed care. This means we prioritize safety, trust, and collaboration at every stage of treatment. Clients are treated with dignity and autonomy, and therapy is conducted at a pace that honors their readiness.
We also emphasize community, connection, and long-term recovery. Every aspect of our acute stress disorder treatment in Boulder is designed to support meaningful, lasting change.
What to Expect in Recovery
While ASD symptoms can be overwhelming, they are treatable. With early intervention, most individuals see significant improvements in symptoms and overall functioning. Our clients often report better emotional regulation, fewer flashbacks, and anxiety episodes, a stronger sense of connection to themselves and others, and increased confidence in managing stress. Recovery is rarely a straight path, but with expert guidance and continued support, lasting healing is not only possible, it is within reach.
Who We Serve
Flatirons Recovery supports adults of all genders seeking trauma recovery. We welcome individuals who are experiencing acute stress disorder, with or without co-occurring conditions. Our programs are especially beneficial for those who prefer a mindful, holistic approach grounded in clinical excellence.
We are proud to offer compassionate, evidence-based ASD treatment in Boulder tailored to each client’s needs. We also collaborate with loved ones, healthcare providers, and referral sources to ensure continuity of care.
When to Seek Help
If symptoms of ASD are disrupting your daily life or if you feel unsafe, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your surroundings, it is time to seek support. Early care prevents long-term complications and supports healthier coping mechanisms.
In cases of immediate danger or suicidal thoughts, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Help is available.
Compassionate and Holistic Acute Stress Disorder Treatment in Boulder
If you or someone close to you is struggling in the wake of trauma, do not wait. Flatirons Recovery provides acute stress disorder treatment in Boulder designed to meet you exactly where you are. From intensive therapy to creative healing practices, our programs are built to support the whole person, mind, body, and spirit.
You do not have to face this alone. Contact our team today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you take the first step toward healing.