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?
Acute stress disorder is a disorder that occurs after experiencing a traumatic, shocking, terrifying, or dangerous event and interferes with the ability to function normally. People with this disorder can feel stressed or scared, even when they are no longer in danger. Hypervigilance symptoms are often constant, rather than caused by something that brings back memories of the traumatic experience. These symptoms can make the person feel stressed and angry. They can also present difficulties in daily tasks, such as sleeping, eating or concentrating.
