HFRG Defensive Tactics Practice Test

The term that accurately describes the post-event mental and physiological symptoms following sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation is "combat stress." This term specifically refers to the psychological and physiological responses experienced by individuals in high-stress situations, particularly those involving life-threatening conditions, such as combat or violent confrontations. When the SNS is activated, the body prepares for a "fight or flight" response, leading to a range of symptoms that might manifest after the immediate event, like anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and emotional disturbances.

Combat stress encompasses the various effects that persist after the acute dangers have passed, highlighting the long-term impact of such high-stress experiences. This understanding helps in recognizing the need for proper mental health support and interventions after intense situations.

The other terms differ in focus: survival stress generally refers to the immediate reactions to life-threatening situations; acute stress response pertains more to the initial physiological reactions during the event rather than post-event symptoms; and chronic stress refers to ongoing stress that persists over time, but not specifically tied to a particular event like combat stress does. Each of these terms describes different aspects of stress response, further clarifying the unique characteristics of combat stress.