What is a Stress Disorder?
Stress Disorders occur when the body and mind are unable to recover from exposure to acute or chronic stress. According to DSM-5, this includes conditions such as Acute Stress Disorder (symptoms within one month of trauma) and can develop into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if untreated .
Stress disorders are more than feeling “stressed out” — they are physiological and psychological conditions that affect the autonomic nervous system, cognition, and emotional regulation.
Symptoms of Stress Disorder
- Intrusive memories or nightmares.
- Dissociation or “spacing out.”
- Sleep disturbances.
- Hyperarousal or exaggerated startle response.
- Emotional numbness or detachment.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
How Trauma Affects Daily Life
How Stress Disorders Affect Daily Life
Chronic stress without regulation can:
- Impair memory and learning (via cortisol overload on the brain).
- Lead to burnout, depression, or anxiety.
- Disrupt relationships through irritability or withdrawal.
- Increase physical health risks (cardiovascular disease, immune suppression).
Living Free’s Approach to Stress Disorders
We see stress disorders as part of a spectrum of trauma-related conditions. Our six-domain model helps clients regulate arousal, process intrusive experiences, and rebuild safety.
Therapies We Offer for Stress Disorders
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Somatic Coaching and Breathwork
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Exposure Therapy (when appropriate)
- Lifestyle Coaching: sleep, nutrition, and exercise
Why Choose Living Free
Evidence-based methods built on DSM-5 criteria and neuroscience.
A holistic team including psychotherapists, yoga instructors, and coaches.
A compassionate, client-centered environment.
Contact us today to explore treatment at Living Free.
