Which condition is characterized by symptoms occurring within 4 weeks after a traumatic event?

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is characterized by the onset of symptoms within a few days to four weeks following a traumatic event. This condition includes symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, heightened anxiety, dissociation, and avoidance behaviors associated with the trauma. The timing of the symptoms is crucial, as ASD is distinct from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which requires that the symptoms persist for more than one month following the traumatic event for a diagnosis to be made. In contrast to ASD, PTSD can develop later and usually features similar symptoms but is considered when the experience becomes chronic.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is not specifically tied to trauma and involves excessive anxiety about various aspects of life over an extended period. Chronic Stress Disorder is not a recognized diagnosis in the same way ASD and PTSD are, further differentiating the conditions. Thus, ASD correctly identifies the condition in which symptoms manifest within the initial four weeks after a traumatic experience.