The DSM-5 is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition.
It might be considered as the gold standard for outlining diagnostic criteria for the classification of mental health conditions. It is published by the American Psychiatric Association and is used by mental health professionals.
We believe in the individuality and uniqueness of our clients. We do not try to categorise many of the mental health difficulties we help with. PTSD is an exception as it can help someone understand why they feel the way they do and provides a clear pathway of healing and recovery.
The following information is based on the DSM-5 PTSD criteria. Criterion are separated into a number of different categories. Symptoms might be experienced in one or more category and severity of symptoms can vary in different categories.
The categories are: Exposure to stressor, intrusion symptoms, persistent avoidance, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, alterations in arousal and reactivity, duration, functional significance or exclusion.
PTSD Diagnosis Criterion Symptoms
Criterion A – Exposure to stressor
Recognition of direct or indirect exposure
- Direct exposure to the traumatic event
- You witnessed the traumatic event
- You learnt of a traumatic event
- Repeated or extreme indirect exposure to a traumatic event
Criterion B – Intrusion Symptoms
Experience of at least one of the following symptoms
- Recurrent memories of the traumatic incident
- Traumatic dreams in relation to the traumatic event
- Dissociation symptoms which include flashbacks (feeling as if the traumatic event is happening again in the present moment)
- Psychological distress caused by cues that serve as reminders of the traumatic event
- Strong physiological reaction to reminders of the traumatic event
Criterion C – Persistent Avoidance
At least one of these two criteria
- Avoiding thoughts, feelings and physical symptoms which trigger memories of the traumatic event.
- Avoiding external reminders of the traumatic event which can include: people, places and activities
Criterion D – Negative Alterations in Cognitions and Moods
At least two of the following criteria.
- Dissociative amnesia – not being able to remember important aspects of the traumatic event
- Persistent and negative beliefs or cognitions about self, other people or the world. 'I am a bad person, or the world is an unsafe place'.
- Persistent or cognitive distortions in relation to blaming self or others for causing or consequences of the traumatic incident.
- Negative trauma related emotions – for example: shame, anger, guilt or fear
- Loss of interest in activities or interests once enjoyed
- Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others
- The inability to experience positive emotions – for example happiness and love
Criterion E – Alterations in arousal and reactivity
At least two of the following changes in arousal and reactivity
- Irritable or aggressive behaviour
- Self-destructive, impulsive or reckless behaviour
- Feeling in a hypervigilant state – feeling as if you are constantly on guard
- Exaggerated startle response - being startled easily
- Problems concentrating
- Problems sleeping
Criterion F – Duration of symptoms
- Acute distress disorder symptoms are experienced for longer than one month
Criterion G – Functional Significance
- The symptoms impair social function, occupation and other areas in everyday living
Criterion H – Exclusion
- The symptoms are not attributable to medication, substance use or illness