PTSD Screening Test
A free, clinically informed screening for post-traumatic stress symptoms
About This Test
This screening is based on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), developed by the National Center for PTSD at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It assesses the key symptom clusters of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it is normal to experience distress after trauma, PTSD occurs when symptoms persist for more than a month and significantly impair daily functioning. Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include combat, sexual assault, natural disasters, serious accidents, childhood abuse, and witnessing violence. PTSD is not a sign of weakness - it is the brain's response to an overwhelming experience, and it is highly treatable with the right support.
Key Signs & Symptoms
Intrusive Memories
Unwanted, recurring memories of the traumatic event. Flashbacks that make you feel as if you are reliving the experience. Distressing nightmares.
Hyperarousal
Being easily startled, feeling constantly on guard, difficulty sleeping, irritability, or angry outbursts that seem out of proportion.
Avoidance
Avoiding places, people, activities, or thoughts that remind you of the trauma. Emotional numbing and feeling detached from others.
Negative Thought Changes
Persistent negative beliefs about yourself or the world. Feelings of guilt, shame, or blame. Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia, frequent nightmares, or night sweats related to the traumatic event. Feeling exhausted upon waking.
Emotional Detachment
Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected from loved ones, or losing interest in activities you previously enjoyed.
PTSD by the Numbers
6%
of the U.S. population will have PTSD at some point in their lives
12M
U.S. adults have PTSD during a given year
10-20%
of people exposed to trauma develop PTSD
53%
of people with PTSD who receive treatment show significant improvement
Who Should Take This Test?
Consider taking this screening if any of the following apply to you:
You have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and are struggling with the aftermath
You have recurring, unwanted memories, nightmares, or flashbacks of a past event
You avoid places, people, or situations that remind you of a traumatic experience
You feel emotionally numb, detached from loved ones, or unable to experience positive emotions
You are easily startled, feel constantly on edge, or have difficulty sleeping
You want to understand whether your reactions to a past event may be symptoms of PTSD
How It Works
Answer Honestly
Respond to 8 questions about your recent experiences. There are no right or wrong answers.
Get Your Results
Receive an instant, personalized assessment of your symptoms with clinical context.
Find Support
Browse therapists who specialize in treating what you're experiencing.
What Your Score Means
Treatment Options for PTSD
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Helps you challenge and modify unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. Usually involves 12 sessions and has strong evidence for reducing PTSD symptoms.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)
Gradually helps you approach trauma-related memories and situations you have been avoiding, reducing their power over you in a safe, controlled environment.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Uses guided eye movements while recalling traumatic memories to help the brain reprocess the experience. Endorsed by the WHO and VA for PTSD treatment.
Trauma-Focused CBT
Combines cognitive behavioral techniques with trauma-specific interventions to address both the thoughts and behaviors that maintain PTSD symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD - especially if they have lasted more than a month, are getting worse, or are interfering with your work and relationships - professional help can make a significant difference. PTSD does not typically resolve on its own without treatment, and early intervention leads to better outcomes. If you are in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms include intrusive memories, avoidance of reminders, negative changes in thinking and mood, and heightened reactivity.
Can PTSD develop years after a traumatic event?
Yes. While PTSD symptoms often begin within 3 months of a traumatic event, they can sometimes appear years later. This is sometimes called delayed-onset PTSD.
What treatments are effective for PTSD?
Several evidence-based treatments have been shown to be effective, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy.
Is my data private?
Yes. Your answers are processed entirely in your browser and are never sent to our servers or stored in any database.
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This screening tool is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed mental health professional for clinical evaluation.