Which sign may indicate the need for intervention when trauma distress impairs functioning or lasts more than one month?

• A. Hypervigilance/arousal
• B. Avoidance
• C. Distress lasting more than one month
• D. Intrusive memories

Answer: (C)

Duration and impact on functioning determine when trauma distress needs attention. If distress persists beyond one month and impairs daily life, it signals a transition from a typical acute reaction toward a more persistent condition that may require assessment and treatment, such as PTSD. Acute stress disorder is limited to up to one month, so distress lasting longer fits PTSD considerations and the need for intervention.

While hypervigilance/arousal, avoidance, and intrusive memories are common trauma symptoms, they by themselves do not specify the need for intervention based on duration or impairment. They can appear early and fluctuate, but the key indicator here is distress that lasts more than a month (and the accompanying impairment).