Self-Assessment
If you think you may have PTSD, it is important to consult a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis. However, you can take a self-assessment to get a better understanding of your symptoms. The National Center for PTSD offers a free self-assessment tool, called the Primary Care PTSD Screen (PC-PTSD-5). This tool was designed to help primary care physicians screen for PTSD in their patients. The PC-PTSD-5 includes five questions that assess whether someone has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, and if they have any of the symptoms of PTSD such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative thoughts and mood, and hyperarousal.
Diagnostic Assessment
A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can provide a more comprehensive assessment to determine if you have PTSD. During the assessment, they will ask detailed questions about your symptoms and the trauma you experienced. They may also give you a physical exam and order lab tests to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. After the assessment, the mental health professional will be able to make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for PTSD is psychotherapy, or "talk therapy." This type of therapy helps you process your trauma and develop new coping skills to manage your symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is often used to treat PTSD. This type of therapy helps you recognize and change any unhealthy thought patterns that may be contributing to your symptoms. In addition to psychotherapy, medication may be recommended to help manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and nightmares.
It is important to remember that seeking help for PTSD is a sign of strength. If you think you may have PTSD, it is important to speak to your doctor or a mental health professional to get an accurate diagnosis and to get the help you need.