order may also interpret their symptoms in  a catastrophic manner, such that flashback
memories or emotional numbing may be interpreted as a sign of diminished mental ca-
pacity. It is common for individuals with acute stress disorder to experience panic attacks
in the initial month after trauma exposure th at may be triggered by trauma reminders or
may apparently occur spontaneously. Addition ally, individuals with acute stress disorder
may display chaotic or impulsive behavior. For example, individuals may drive reck-
lessly, make irrational decisions, or gamble  excessively. In children, there may be sig-
nificant separation anxiety, possibly mani fested by excessive needs for attention from