A peritraumatic reaction refers to a range of psychological and physiological responses that occur during or immediately after experiencing a traumatic event. These reactions can include intense fear, helplessness, horror, and other distressing emotions that are typical of acute stress reactions.


The symptoms of peritraumatic reactions can vary from person to person, but they may include:

  1. Physical sensations: Feeling nauseous, sweaty, trembling, heart palpitations, or experiencing difficulty breathing.
  2. Emotional reactions: Feeling numb, overwhelmed, frightened, helpless, or in shock.
  3. Cognitive symptoms: Having difficulty concentrating, feeling confused, experiencing memory lapses, or feeling disoriented.
  4. Behavioral changes: Feeling agitated, irritable, or restless, having difficulty sleeping, or feeling detached from others.

These responses can vary depending on the nature of the traumatic event, as well as individual differences in coping styles, prior trauma history, and other factors.


Peritraumatic reactions are considered a normal and natural response to traumatic events, and are often part of the process of adjusting to the aftermath of trauma. However, if these reactions persist or interfere with daily functioning, they may indicate the need for further evaluation and treatment by a mental health professional.