This free, private PTSD self-test is based on the PC-PTSD-5, a brief screening tool used by clinicians, including at the VA. It begins with one question about whether you have experienced a traumatic event, then asks five quick yes-or-no questions about the past month. It takes about a minute, your answers stay on your device, and it is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
PTSD Self-Test
A brief screening based on the PC-PTSD-5. Takes about a minute.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It can help you understand your symptoms, but only a clinician can diagnose PTSD. Your answers stay on your device — nothing is saved or sent.
Instrument: PC-PTSD-5 (Prins et al., 2016), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD; public domain. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 anytime. Sacramento Mental Health treats adults 18 and older.
How to Read Your Score
The PC-PTSD-5 counts how many of the five symptom questions you answer yes. A score of 3 or more is considered a positive screen, meaning your symptoms are consistent with PTSD and a full evaluation is recommended. The table below summarizes what your result suggests.
| Score | What It Suggests |
|---|---|
| 0–2 (yes answers) | Below the usual screening threshold for PTSD |
| 3–5 (yes answers) | A positive screen; a comprehensive evaluation is recommended |
Is This a Diagnosis?
No. A positive screen does not mean you definitely have PTSD, and a negative screen does not rule it out. Only a clinician can diagnose PTSD, through a comprehensive assessment that looks at your full history. A screen like this is a useful starting point, not the final word.
What to Do Next
If your result suggests PTSD, or if trauma symptoms are interfering with your daily life regardless of the score, the next step is to talk with a professional. PTSD is highly treatable. To understand the condition, its symptoms, and the treatment options, see our guide to PTSD treatment, or call (916) 527-9606 to discuss coverage and payment options.
If You Are Thinking About Suicide
Trauma can come with thoughts of suicide or self-harm. If you are having those thoughts or do not feel able to keep yourself safe, please reach out right now. You can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, any time, and veterans can press 1 after dialing. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You do not have to face this alone, and help is available 24/7.
In Crisis Right Now?
If you or someone you love is in immediate psychiatric crisis, call or text 988 — the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Available 24/7, confidential, free.
If life is in danger, call 911. Sacramento Mental Health is a residential treatment program — not an acute crisis or emergency service.
PTSD Treatment at Sacramento Mental Health
Our Roseville program treats PTSD with trauma-informed, evidence-based care for adults 18 and older.
Explore PTSD treatment →Frequently Asked Questions
Is this PTSD test accurate?
The PC-PTSD-5 is a validated screening tool that performs well at flagging people who may have PTSD. It is designed to identify who should be evaluated further, not to diagnose. A positive screen is a strong reason to talk with a clinician.
What is a positive score on the PC-PTSD-5?
A score of 3 or more yes answers out of the five symptom questions is considered a positive screen. At that level, a comprehensive clinical evaluation for PTSD is recommended. A lower score does not rule PTSD out if symptoms persist.
Are my answers private?
Yes. This screen runs entirely in your browser. Your answers are not saved, sent, or stored anywhere, and no personal information is collected.
What should I do if I screen positive?
A positive screen means it is worth talking with a professional. The next step is a comprehensive assessment, which can confirm whether PTSD is present and guide treatment. PTSD is very treatable, and reaching out is a strong first move.