Counselling
SYMPTOMS OF PTSD
To be diagnosed with PTSD, an adult must have all of the following for at least 1 month:
At least one Re-experiencing symptoms
- Experiencing flashbacks—reliving the traumatic event, including physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating
- Having recurring memories or dreams related to the event
- Having distressing thoughts
- Experiencing physical signs of stress
At least one Avoidance symptoms
- Staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the traumatic experience
- Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the traumatic event
At least two Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms
- Being easily startled
- Feeling tense, on guard, or on edge
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Feeling irritable and having angry or aggressive outbursts
- Engaging in risky, reckless, or destructive behavior
At least two Cognition and Mood symptoms
- Having trouble remembering key features of the traumatic event
- Having negative thoughts about oneself or the world
- Having exaggerated feelings of blame directed toward oneself or others
- Having ongoing negative emotions, such as fear, anger, guilt, or shame
- Losing interest in enjoyable activities
- Having feelings of social isolation
- Having difficulty feeling positive emotions, such as happiness or satisfaction