DSM-5 pays more attention to the behavioral symptoms that accompany PTSD and proposes four distinct diagnostic clusters instead of three. They are described as re-experiencing, avoidance, negative cognitions and mood, and arousal.

Initial research suggests that a PCL-5 cutoff score between 31-33 is indicative of probable PTSD across samples.

The PCL is a standardized self-report rating scale for PTSD comprising 17 items that correspond to the key symptoms of PTSD. Two versions of the PCL exist: 1) PCL-M is specific to PTSD caused by military experiences and 2) PCL-C is applied generally to any traumatic event.

Symptoms are rated on five-point scales from 0 (not at all) to 4 (very much) and the authors suggest a cutoff score of 14 for this screen. Those receiving positive scores should be further assessed.

The PDS-5 is a 24-item self-report measure that assesses PTSD symptom severity in the last month ing to DSM-5 criteria. The PDS-5 begins with two trauma screen questions to assess trauma history and identify an index trauma.

Before having treatment for PTSD, a detailed assessment of your symptoms will be carried out to ensure treatment is tailored to your individual needs. This may be carried out by a GP or specialist. You can see a GP to start on this process, or you can refer yourself for assessment to a talking therapy service.