The PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist for DSM-5) is a 20-item self-report measure that assesses the presence and severity of PTSD symptoms. It's designed to help healthcare providers screen for PTSD, make a provisional diagnosis, and monitor symptom changes during and after treatment.
Take the Free PCL-5 Assessment
The PCL-5 assessment consists of 20 questions that help identify potential PTSD symptoms. The assessment takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete and provides immediate results.
About the Free PCL-5 Assessment
The PCL-5 (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5) is a validated screening tool designed to evaluate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder based on the DSM-5 criteria. Our free assessment consists of 20 questions that help identify potential PTSD symptoms.
What to expect:
- ✓Complete the assessment in approximately 5-10 minutes
- ✓Receive immediate results with severity level
- ✓Get a breakdown of symptoms by category
- ✓Option to receive results via email
- ✓Free consultation with our mental health professionals
Important note: This free assessment is for screening purposes only and is not a diagnosis. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose PTSD. If you're experiencing severe symptoms, please seek professional help immediately.
PCL-5 FAQ: Understanding Your PTSD Assessment
Answers to common questions about our approach and what your results mean
The PCL-5 typically takes about 5-10 minutes to complete. Each item asks you to rate how much you've been bothered by a specific symptom over the past month.
While the PCL-5 is a reliable screening tool, it should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis. A proper PTSD diagnosis should be made by a qualified mental health professional based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation.
The PCL-5 uses a 0-4 scale for each symptom, with total scores ranging from 0-80. Higher scores indicate more severe PTSD symptoms. Scores are interpreted as follows: 0-19 (minimal), 20-30 (mild), 31-43 (moderate), and 44+ (severe). A score of 44 or higher in the general population suggests a positive result for PTSD, while a score of 50 or higher suggests a positive result within military populations.
Yes, after completing the assessment, you will receive a detailed copy of your results via email. This email includes your total score, severity level, section scores, and recommendations based on your results. The email is sent to the address you provided when starting the assessment.
Regardless of your score, it's recommended to discuss your results with a mental health professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, offer an official diagnosis if appropriate, recommend treatment options tailored to your needs, and help you develop coping strategies. Even if your score is low, speaking with a professional can help you understand your mental health better.
Several effective treatments are available for PTSD, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), medication, and group therapy. The most appropriate treatment depends on your specific symptoms, preferences, and circumstances. A mental health professional can help determine which approach would be most beneficial for you.
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