Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sandy's symptoms align with acute stress disorder, which is characterized by the development of severe anxiety, dissociation, and other symptoms that occur within one month after exposure to an extreme traumatic stressor (like the Boston Marathon bombing). Since her symptoms are occurring within 2 weeks of the event, acute stress disorder is the most accurate diagnosis. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed after symptoms persist for more than one month.

Sandy Took Part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, Where