The PC-PTSD-5 is a brief screening tool for post-traumatic stress symptoms. Understanding your results can help you recognize symptoms and take appropriate steps for support.

What Is the PC-PTSD-5?

The PC-PTSD-5 (Primary Care PTSD Screen) is a 5-item screening tool designed to identify individuals who may be experiencing post-traumatic stress symptoms. It's widely used in primary care settings and mental health clinics.

How the PC-PTSD-5 Works

The screening asks about five common PTSD symptoms:

  1. Nightmares or unwanted thoughts about the traumatic event
  2. Avoidance of thoughts or situations that remind you of the event
  3. Feeling numb or detached from others, activities, or surroundings
  4. Irritability, anger, or trouble controlling your temper
  5. Trouble falling or staying asleep

Each question is answered as "yes" or "no." A positive response to any item indicates potential trauma-related symptoms.

Interpreting Your Results

Low Risk (0-1 positive responses)

Your responses suggest low risk of trauma-related symptoms. This means:

  • You may not be experiencing significant post-traumatic stress
  • Any symptoms you experience are likely mild or situational
  • Your coping strategies are working well

What to do: Continue practicing healthy coping strategies. If you notice changes in your mood or behavior, consider reassessing.

Moderate Risk (2-3 positive responses)

You may be experiencing some trauma-related symptoms. This means:

  • You may have noticeable symptoms that affect your daily life
  • You might benefit from support or coping strategies
  • Your symptoms are not yet severe but warrant attention

What to do: Consider talking to a mental health professional. Learning trauma-informed coping strategies can help.

High Risk (4-5 positive responses)

Your responses indicate possible trauma-related challenges. This means:

  • You may be experiencing significant PTSD symptoms
  • Your daily functioning may be affected
  • Professional evaluation is recommended

What to do: We strongly recommend consulting a licensed mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

If you're experiencing trauma-related symptoms, you may notice:

Intrusive Thoughts

  • Unwanted memories or flashbacks
  • Nightmares about the traumatic event
  • Intense emotional reactions when reminded of the event

Avoidance

  • Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind you of the trauma
  • Emotional numbing or detachment
  • Difficulty remembering parts of the traumatic event

Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood

  • Negative thoughts about yourself, others, or the world
  • Distorted blame (self-blame or blaming others)
  • Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
  • Feeling detached from loved ones
  • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

Arousal and Reactivity Changes

  • Irritability or angry outbursts
  • Reckless or self-destructive behavior
  • Hypervigilance (feeling constantly on guard)
  • Exaggerated startle response
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Sleep disturbances

How Trauma Symptoms Affect Daily Life

Trauma symptoms can impact many areas of your life:

  • Work or school performance
  • Relationships with family and friends
  • Self-esteem and self-worth
  • Physical health
  • Emotional well-being

If your screening indicates moderate or high risk, consider these steps:

Talk to a Mental Health Professional

  • Find a therapist trained in trauma-informed care
  • Consider EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for PTSD

Join a Support Group

  • Connect with others who have experienced similar trauma
  • Share your experiences in a safe environment
  • Learn from others' coping strategies

Practice Self-Care

  • Prioritize sleep and rest
  • Engage in activities that bring you comfort
  • Practice relaxation techniques
  • Be patient with yourself - healing takes time

Build a Support System

  • Share your experiences with trusted loved ones
  • Let others know how they can support you
  • Don't isolate yourself

Remember: Healing Is Possible

Trauma can have lasting effects, but with the right support and treatment, healing is possible. Many people recover from trauma and go on to live fulfilling lives.

Take the PC-PTSD-5 Trauma Test