Which statement is true regarding stress reactions following a disaster?

Which statement is true regarding stress reactions following a disaster?

• A. Most stress reactions increase over time.
• B. Most stress reactions decrease quickly.
• C. Stress reactions are unrelated to exposure.
• D. Only responders experience stress reactions.

Answer: (A)

After a disaster, most people experience acute distress that is highest soon after the event and then gradually improves. The common pattern is a spike in symptoms such as anxiety, sleep trouble, and intrusive memories that tends to lessen over days to weeks as coping improves and support is available. A minority may have longer-lasting symptoms or develop conditions like PTSD, especially if exposure was severe, social support was weak, or there’s a history of prior trauma. Stress reactions are linked to exposure—the more intense or prolonged the exposure, the higher the risk and severity of reactions. Importantly, anyone involved, not just responders, can be affected.

After a disaster, most people experience acute distress that is highest soon after the event and then gradually improves. The common pattern is a spike in symptoms such as anxiety, sleep trouble, and intrusive memories that tends to lessen over days to weeks as coping improves and support is available. A minority may have longer-lasting symptoms or develop conditions like PTSD, especially if exposure was severe, social support was weak, or there’s a history of prior trauma. Stress reactions are linked to exposure—the more intense or prolonged the exposure, the higher the risk and severity of reactions. Importantly, anyone involved, not just responders, can be affected.