PTSD Screening Test (PC-PTSD-5)
A validated 5-question screening tool developed by the VA to identify individuals who may have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following exposure to a traumatic event.
Who Is This Test For?
The PC-PTSD-5 is designed for adults who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and want to understand whether they might be experiencing PTSD symptoms. It's appropriate for anyone seeking an initial self-check before potentially seeking professional help.
- Adults who have experienced a traumatic event such as assault, accident, combat, or disaster
- Those experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts about a past event
- People who notice they're avoiding places, people, or activities that remind them of something traumatic
- Anyone feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, or emotionally numb since a difficult experience
In the past month, have you experienced the following related to a traumatic event?
Had nightmares about the event(s) or thought about the event(s) when you did not 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(s) or any problems the event(s) may have caused?
Good To Know
Safety First, Then Processing
Before diving into trauma memories, focus on stabilization: regular sleep, reliable routines, and safe relationships. Trauma therapy works best when you have a stable foundation. This isn't avoidance-it's smart preparation for the work ahead.
Your Body Remembers Too
PTSD isn't just psychological-it lives in your body as muscle tension, hypervigilance, and startle responses. Physical techniques like grounding, breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can directly calm these body-based symptoms while you work on the emotional aspects.
Avoidance Provides Relief but Maintains PTSD
It's natural to avoid reminders of trauma-avoidance provides immediate relief. But long-term, avoidance keeps PTSD symptoms stuck. Effective treatment involves gradually, safely approaching avoided memories and situations. This is done carefully with professional support, not all at once.
Understanding the PC-PTSD-5
T he PC-PTSD-5 (Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5) was developed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a brief screening tool for use in primary care and other medical settings. It was updated in 2015 to align with the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD.
The screen begins by asking if you've ever experienced a traumatic event-such as a serious accident, assault, combat, or the sudden death of a loved one. If you answer yes, five yes/no questions assess whether that trauma is currently affecting you through nightmares, avoidance, hypervigilance, emotional numbing, or guilt.
Research shows that a score of 3 or higher correctly identifies probable PTSD in most cases, with high sensitivity (over 90%) meaning it rarely misses people who do have PTSD. However, it has more false positives, so a positive screen needs confirmation through a comprehensive clinical evaluation.
The PC-PTSD-5 is freely available and widely used in healthcare settings worldwide. It's not a diagnostic tool-only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose PTSD after a thorough evaluation that includes clinical interview and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 'positive screen' mean?
A positive screen means your responses suggest you may be experiencing PTSD symptoms that warrant further evaluation. It does NOT mean you have PTSD-only a comprehensive clinical assessment can determine that. Think of it as a signal to follow up with a mental health professional, not a diagnosis.
How accurate is the PC-PTSD-5?
The PC-PTSD-5 has high sensitivity (over 90%), meaning it rarely misses people who have PTSD. However, it has more false positives-some people who screen positive won't have PTSD upon full evaluation. This design is intentional: for screening purposes, it's better to identify everyone who might need help than to miss people who do.
Can PTSD develop years after a traumatic event?
Yes, delayed-onset PTSD can occur months or even years after a traumatic event. Sometimes symptoms emerge when triggered by a new stress or a reminder of the original trauma. If you've experienced trauma in the past and notice new symptoms, it's worth being evaluated regardless of how much time has passed.
What treatments are available for PTSD?
Several evidence-based treatments are highly effective for PTSD. Trauma-focused psychotherapies like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and EMDR have the strongest research support. Medications, particularly certain antidepressants, can also help. Many people achieve significant symptom reduction or full recovery with treatment.
Should I take this test again later?
If you're monitoring yourself after a traumatic event, retaking the screen every few weeks can help you notice changes. PTSD symptoms can fluctuate, and what screens negative today might screen positive later-or vice versa. If you're in treatment, your provider may use more detailed assessments to track your progress.
More Tests
This self-assessment is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It cannot replace a professional evaluation by a qualified mental health provider. If you're experiencing significant distress or your symptoms are affecting your daily life, please seek help from a healthcare professional. If you're in crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis helpline.