What Are the Symptoms of Delayed Stress Syndrome?

Delayed Stress Syndrome is a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that shows up more than six months after experiencing a traumatic event. Although most people think of war as the event that triggers Delayed Stress Syndrome, events of abuse, violence, natural catastrophe and acts of terrorism can also set off symptoms.

Intrusive Symptoms of Delayed Stress Syndrome

• Nightmares, intrusive memories and emotions, flashbacks of the traumatic event, and dissociative states are considered intrusive symptoms.

Avoidant Symptoms of Delayed Stress Syndrome

• Persons suffering Delayed Stress Syndrome may avoid responsibility for others and relationships. They also avoid situations that may remind them of the previous traumatic event.

Hyperarousal Symptoms of Delayed Stress Syndrome

• Explosive outbursts, exaggerated reactions to being startled, irritability and sleep disturbance are classified as hyperarousal symptoms. People might show signs of extreme vigilance and panic.

Dissociative Symptoms of Delayed Stress Syndrome

• Amnesia and psychic numbing can appear as the person tries to depersonalize the trauma responsible for Delayed Stress Syndrome.

Causes of Delayed Stress Syndrome by Gender

• A physical attack or threat of attack is most often identified as the traumatic event at the base of Delayed Stress Syndrome in women, while men trace the cause to combat or witnessing violence to others.