ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Acute stress disorder

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is like a really bad case of being scared. Imagine that you see something really scary, like a monster, and your heart starts to race, your chest gets tight, and you can't think or move. That's what ASD feels like - it's a sudden and intense feeling of fear that is so strong that it can almost take over your whole body. When you have ASD, it can last for a few days or even a few weeks, and it can be very hard to cope with. It's important to remember that ASD is very common and it's nothing to be ashamed of - it's part of being human. Talk to someone you trust and get help if you need it.