What type of stress is often linked to catastrophes and develops quickly after an incident?

Acute stress reaction is characterized by its swift onset following a traumatic event, such as a catastrophe. This type of stress manifests within minutes to hours after exposure to the incident. Individuals experiencing an acute stress reaction may show various symptoms, including intense anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and intrusive memories of the event. This response is a natural, immediate reaction to a perceived threat or traumatic experience and can affect anyone who witnesses or participates in a disaster.

Chronic stress, in contrast, develops over a prolonged period and is linked to ongoing, persistent stressors rather than a sudden incident. Delayed stress reactions occur when symptoms are not apparent right after the event but surface much later, showing that the trauma may take time to manifest. Eustress refers to positive stress that can motivate or energize individuals and is not associated with the negative effects related to acute or chronic stress reactions. Thus, acute stress reaction is clearly distinct in its timing and nature, making it the correct answer.