Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

After learning a bit about the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), let’s now look at it from a clinical perspective. Specifically, what are the conditions that allow PTSD to be diagnosed according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition)?

The first criterion involves exposure to a traumatic event such as a threat of death, serious injury, or sexual violence. This can be experienced directly or indirectly (witnessing the event or learning about it happening to someone else).

The second criterion involves intrusive symptoms associated with the traumatic event. The criterion is met if at least one of the following intrusive symptoms is present:

• Recurring and distressing memories
• Recurring and distressing dreams
• Dissociative reactions like flashbacks
• Intense psychological distress
• Marked physiological reactions to triggering factors.

The third criterion concerns avoidance. The criterion is met if the individual exhibits at least one avoidance symptom must be present:

• Attempting to avoid memories of the traumatic event
• Attempting to avoid any factors associated with the traumatic event

The fourth criterion involves negative changes in thoughts and emotions. The criterion is met if the individual exhibits at least two of the following must be present:

• Inability to remember important details of the traumatic event
• Exaggerated negative beliefs about oneself or others
• Distorted thoughts about the causes or consequences of the traumatic event
• Persistent negative emotions
• Diminished interest in potentially rewarding activities
• Feelings of detachment from others
• Inability to experience positive emotions

The fifth criterion involves alterations in arousal. The criterion is met if the individual exhibits at least two of the following symptoms must be present:

• Irritability with potential outbursts of anger
• Self-destructive behavior
• Hypervigilance (constant and heightened alertness to all stimuli)
• Exaggerated startle responses
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances

For a diagnosis of PTSD, these symptoms must persist for at least one month, cause significant distress, and not be better explained by other conditions. Additionally, in children under the age of 6, the diagnostic criteria for PTSD differ from those listed above.

Sources:

• American Psychiatric Association (2013) - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• Bernhill, J. W. (2014) - DSM-5 Clinical Cases.

If you would like me to describe a psychology topic in my own words, write it in the comments.