What is acute stress?

• A. Long-term stress from chronic illness.
• B. Stress from disasters.
• C. A sleep disorder.
• D. Short-lived stress from unexpected life changes, like a relationship ending or job loss.

Answer: (D)

Acute stress is a brief, immediate reaction to a sudden or unexpected event. It peaks quickly and typically passes as the situation changes or you adapt. The scenario described—an unexpected life change like a breakup or job loss—fits this pattern because the stress is intense but short-lived. The other options describe longer-lasting states (chronic stress), a condition not primarily about stress (sleep disorder), or a broader situation that isn’t inherently defined by a short duration. So, a short-lived stress from an unexpected life change best reflects acute stress.