PTSD Screen
Sometimes things happen to people that are unusual or especially frightening, horrible, or traumatic. For example, a serious accident or fire, a physical or sexual assault or abuse, an earthquake or flood, a war, seeing someone be killed or seriously injured, or having a loved one die through homicide or suicide.
If yes, please answer the questions below. In the past month, have you:
Had nightmares about the event(s) or thought about the event(s) when you didn’t want to?
Tried hard not to think about the event(s) or went out of your way to avoid situations that reminded you of the event(s)?
Been constantly on guard, watchful, or easily startled? Felt numb or detached from people, activities, or your surroundings?
Felt guilty or unable to stop blaming yourself or others for the event or any problems the event may have caused?
If you answered “yes” to 3 or more of these questions, talk to a mental health care provider to learn more about PTSD and PTSD treatment.
Answering “yes” to 3 or more questions does not mean you have PTSD. Only a mental health care provider can tell you for sure after a comprehensive evaluation.
What if the screening tool says I don’t have PTSD?
You may still want to talk to a mental health care provider. If thoughts and feelings from the trauma are bothering you and affecting the quality of your life, treatment can help — whether or not you meet full clinical criteria for PTSD.