This article explores the causes and symptoms of emotional shock, as well as treatment options and coping strategies.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Symptoms of Emotional Shock
Emotional shock may be accompanied by a range of physical and emotional symptoms.
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Aimee Daramus, PsyD
You might feel numb, or cry, or rage.
You might just sit there, emotionally unable to move.
Two people may face the exact same experience and have completely different emotional reactions.
Diagnosing Emotional Shock
People experience emotional shock for varying amounts of time.
It can lead toacute stress disorder (ASD)orpost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Everyone reacts to traumatic events differently.
You may also experience physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, breathlessness, or tightness in your throat.
Emotional shock is often short-lived, but it may persist or develop intoPTSD.
PTSD can be assessed, diagnosed, and treated by a mental health professional.
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