Signs and Symptoms of Delayed-Stress Syndrome

In delayed-stress syndrome (DSS), a type of anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), symptoms appear at least six months following a traumatic event.

Signs

• Four major signs may indicate a person suffers from delayed-stress syndrome: the person was a victim of or witness to a traumatic event, such as a war scene, a rape incident or a natural disaster; the person avoids anything that may remind him of this incident, in order to cope; the person re-experiences the event, such as through dreams or thoughts; and the person is often anxious, fearful and on edge.

Increased Arousal

• People who suffer from delayed-stress syndrome may find it difficult to sleep or concentrate. New phobias may develop, especially ones that have some sort of connection to the incident. Symptoms such as irritability, anger and hypervigilance may be present.

Avoidance

• A DSS sufferer may avoid anything that reminds him of the traumatic event. As a coping mechanism, the sufferer may be emotionally detached or experience memory loss related to the trauma.

Flashbacks or Re-Enactment

• Recurring nightmares or flashbacks are common in people who have DSS. These memories may often elicit a physical response, such as an increased heartbeat or sweating. Children suffering from delayed-stress syndrome may re-enact the event when playing.

Recognizing Delayed Stress Syndrome

• It can be difficult, even for professionals, to spot DSS. Because many of the signs and symptoms overlap with other conditions, it can sometimes be difficult to identify. While these signs may not necessarily be the result of DSS, substance abuse, self-harm or threats of suicide and a change in behavior--be it sudden or gradual--can all be possible indications of DSS.