Trauma Self Assessment
A clinically validated 20-question screening tool for symptoms of PTSD
The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is a widely used tool for screening and measuring the severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms. It takes about 3–5 minutes to complete. Your responses are completely private and results are available immediately.
20 questions · ~7 min
What is the PCL-5?
The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is a 20-item self-report questionnaire that measures symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder as defined in the DSM-5. Each item is rated from “not at all” to “extremely” based on how much it has bothered you in the past month, for a total score between 0 and 80. It is one of the most widely used PTSD measures in both research and clinical settings.
20 questions · ~7 min
The four symptom clusters
PTSD symptoms are grouped into four clusters. The PCL-5 gives you a breakdown across all four:
- Intrusion — unwanted memories, nightmares, flashbacks, and distress when reminded of the event.
- Avoidance — steering clear of thoughts, feelings, or reminders connected to the event.
- Negative changes in thoughts and mood — persistent negative beliefs, blame, fear, or feeling cut off from others.
- Arousal and reactivity — irritability, hypervigilance, being easily startled, trouble concentrating, or trouble sleeping.
What happens after I take this screening?
After answering the 20 questions, you'll see your total score with an interpretation, plus a breakdown across the four symptom clusters. A total score at or above 33 suggests probable PTSD and indicates that a full evaluation would be worthwhile. This is not a diagnosis — it's a starting point. If your results suggest PTSD symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our trauma-informed therapists.
20 questions · ~7 min
This screening tool is not a diagnostic instrument. It is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace a professional evaluation. Answering these questions may bring up difficult feelings. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.
The PCL-5 was developed by Frank W. Weathers, Brett T. Litz, Terence M. Keane, Patrick A. Palmieri, Brian P. Marx, and Paula P. Schnurr of the U.S. National Center for PTSD (2013). It is in the public domain and may be used without permission.