There are five main types of reactions to a traumatic event. Not all of these are actual forms or types of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These reactions include: a normal stress response, acute stress disorder, uncomplicated PTSD, comorbid PTSD and complex PTSD. These stress reaction types are based upon an older understanding of humans’ reaction to trauma and may no longer be used by many researchers and clinicians.

Normal Stress Response

The normal stress response occurs when healthy adults who have been exposed to a single discrete traumatic event in adulthood experience intense bad memories, emotional numbing, feelings of unreality, being cut off from relationships or bodily tension and distress. Such individuals usually achieve complete recovery within a few weeks. Often a group debriefing experience is helpful. Debriefings begin by describing the traumatic event. They then progress to exploration of survivors’ emotional responses to the event. Next, there is an open discussion of symptoms that have been precipitated by the trauma. Finally, there is education in which survivors’ responses are explained and positive ways of coping are identified.