Free Online PTSD Evaluation Tool

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek immediate help from a healthcare provider or emergency services.

In the past month, how much were you bothered by:

1. Repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience 2. Repeated, disturbing dreams of the stressful experience 3. Suddenly feeling or acting as if the stressful experience were actually happening again 4. Feeling very upset when something reminded you of the stressful experience 5. Having strong physical reactions when something reminded you of the stressful experience 6. Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings related to the stressful experience 7. Avoiding external reminders of the stressful experience 8. Trouble remembering important parts of the stressful experience 9. Having strong negative beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world 10. Blaming yourself or someone else for the stressful experience or what happened after it 11. Having strong negative feelings such as fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame 12. Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy 13. Feeling distant or cut off from other people 14. Trouble experiencing positive feelings 15. Irritable behavior, angry outbursts, or acting aggressively 16. Taking too many risks or doing things that could cause you harm 17. Being “super alert” or watchful or on guard 18. Feeling jumpy or easily startled 19. Having difficulty concentrating 20. Trouble falling or staying asleep

About This Tool

Our advanced PTSD Evaluation Tool is based on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), a standardized self-report measure developed by experts to assess the 20 DSM-5 symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. It evaluates symptom severity over the past month, providing a score to help users recognize potential PTSD indicators and encourage seeking support. This tool promotes mental health awareness for trauma survivors, veterans, and others, but it's not a replacement for clinical diagnosis. Always consult a qualified therapist or psychiatrist for comprehensive care.

How to Use the PTSD Evaluation Tool

Read each question carefully, thinking about the past month.
Select the rating that best describes how much you've been bothered by each symptom.
Answer all 20 questions honestly for reliable results.
Click 'Evaluate PTSD' to calculate your score.
Review the total score, symptom level, and recommendation.
If the score suggests high symptoms, contact a mental health professional.
Retake the evaluation as needed to track progress or changes.

FAQs

What is a PTSD Evaluation Tool?

It's an online self-assessment based on the PCL-5 to help evaluate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder over the past month.

How accurate is the PCL-5 test?

The PCL-5 is a validated screening tool, but it's not diagnostic; professional assessment is necessary.

What do the PTSD scores mean?

0-10: Minimal, 11-20: Low, 21-30: Moderate, 31-50: High, 51-80: Very high.

Is this tool a substitute for professional diagnosis?

No, it's for informational use; consult a mental health expert for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How often should I take this evaluation?

You can take it as needed to monitor symptoms, based on the past month.

What if my score indicates high PTSD symptoms?

Seek professional help immediately, such as from a therapist or crisis hotline.

Is the tool confidential?

Yes, no data is stored or shared.

Can this tool diagnose PTSD?

No, only a qualified clinician can diagnose PTSD.

What are common PTSD symptoms?

Intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood changes, hyperarousal, and emotional numbness.

How can I cope with PTSD symptoms?

Therapy like CBT, medication, support groups, and self-care; always seek personalized guidance.