5 Helpful Ways for Teens to Cope with Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) can feel overwhelming for teenagers who have experienced a traumatic event. ASD symptoms — such as flashbacks, difficulty concentrating, and emotional numbness — can disrupt school life, friendships, and everyday routines. Fortunately, there are healthy ways to cope and regain a sense of control. In this article, we’ll explore five effective coping strategies to help teens manage acute stress disorder and begin the path to recovery. 

 

1. Grounding Techniques for Staying Present

Grounding exercises are powerful tools to help teens manage flashbacks and emotional triggers. These techniques redirect their attention to the present moment, alleviating intrusive thoughts or distressing memories. 

Examples of Grounding Techniques: 

• 5-4-3-2-1 Exercise: Identify five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. 

• Cold Water Splash: Splashing cold water on the face can quickly shift focus from overwhelming emotions. 

Encouraging teens to use grounding techniques regularly can reduce the intensity of ASD symptoms over time. 

 

2. Building Healthy Routines

Stability and predictability are important for teens coping with ASD. Daily routines provide structure, which helps reduce feelings of chaos after a traumatic event. 

Key Routine Elements: 

• Consistent sleep schedule: Poor sleep can worsen ASD symptoms, so establishing good sleep hygiene is essential.  

• Scheduled downtime: Incorporating rest and self-care activities into a teen’s day helps prevent emotional burnout. Encourage your teen to take time to relax and reset, this will make their days more manageable.  

When life feels overwhelming, predictable routines offer a sense of control and normalcy. 

 

3. Expressing Emotions Through Creative Outlets

Teens often find it difficult to talk about their trauma or emotions. Creative outlets like art, music, or journaling can offer an alternative way to process feelings. 

Creative Coping Ideas: 

• Art therapy: Drawing or painting emotions allows for non-verbal expression. 

• Music and movement: Dancing or playing music can help release stress. 

• Journaling: Writing down thoughts can bring clarity and emotional relief. 

Exploring creative activities enables teens to channel difficult emotions in a healthy and productive way.  

4. Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises

Mindfulness practices teach teens how to be fully present and aware of their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Breathing exercises are a particularly effective tool for calming the nervous system during moments of high anxiety. 

Simple Mindful Breathing Exercises: 

• Box breathing: Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and pause for four. 

• Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and release muscles while focusing on breath control. 

Mindfulness also encourages emotional regulation, helping teens better manage their reactions to stress. These techniques can be used anywhere, making them helpful whether teens are at home, school, or out with friends. Since anxiety can arise unexpectedly, having these tools on hand provides support no matter where they are. 

 

5. Seeking Professional Help for Long-Term Recovery

While coping strategies provide immediate relief, professional treatment plays a crucial role in the recovery process for teens with ASD. Therapists and mental health professionals can offer personalized support, including trauma-focused therapy and medication when necessary. 

If left untreated, ASD can develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early intervention ensures that teens receive the right support to prevent long-term mental health challenges. 

 

Start the Healing Journey with Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center 

Helping a teen cope with acute stress disorder can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center, we offer comprehensive mental health programs designed to meet the unique needs of teens dealing with trauma and acute stress. 

Our expert team provides evidence-based treatments, including: 

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) 

• Group and individual therapy 

• Holistic therapies, such as yoga and art therapy 

Take the First Step Toward Healing Today 

If your teen is struggling with acute stress disorder, early intervention is key. Contact Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center today to learn more about our programs and how we can help your family on the path to recovery.