Free PTSD Test (PCL-5) Australia

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It affects approximately 11% of Australians at some point in their lives.

Traumatic events that may lead to PTSD include:

• Combat or military service
• Physical or sexual assault
• Serious accidents (car, workplace)
• Natural disasters (bushfires, floods)
• Childhood abuse or neglect
• Medical trauma (surgery, intensive care)
• Witnessing violence or death

PTSD symptoms cluster into four categories defined by the DSM-5:

• Intrusion: Flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive memories
• Avoidance: Avoiding trauma reminders, thoughts, or feelings
• Negative cognitions/mood: Negative beliefs, emotional numbness, guilt
• Arousal/reactivity: Hypervigilance, irritability, sleep problems, exaggerated startle response

The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is the most widely used and validated self-report screening tool for PTSD, developed by the US National Center for PTSD. It assesses all 20 DSM-5 symptoms of PTSD.

How the Test Works

The PCL-5 asks about 20 PTSD symptoms experienced over the past month in relation to stressful life experiences. You'll rate each symptom from "Not at all" to "Extremely" (0-4 scale).

Four Symptom Clusters

• Cluster B - Intrusion (5 questions): Re-experiencing symptoms (flashbacks, nightmares)
• Cluster C - Avoidance (2 questions): Avoiding trauma reminders
• Cluster D - Negative Cognitions/Mood (7 questions): Negative thoughts and emotions
• Cluster E - Arousal/Reactivity (6 questions): Hyperarousal and reactivity symptoms

Scoring & Interpretation

Total score range: 0-80

• 0-30: Below Threshold (no treatment typically needed)
• 31-33: Borderline (Screening Positive) (monitor symptoms, self-care strategies)
• 34-49: Moderate PTSD Symptoms (consider counseling or treatment)
• 50-80: Severe PTSD Symptoms (professional treatment recommended)

The PCL-5 also provides cluster scores to identify which symptom categories are most prominent.

How accurate is the PCL-5 PTSD test?

The PCL-5 is the most widely used and validated PTSD screening tool, developed by the US National Center for PTSD. It shows excellent internal consistency (α = 0.94) and high diagnostic accuracy.

Do I need to have experienced combat trauma to have PTSD?

No. PTSD can develop after any traumatic event including car accidents, assault, natural disasters, childhood abuse, medical trauma, or witnessing violence. Combat is only one of many potential causes.

What if I experienced trauma years ago?

PTSD can develop immediately after trauma or years later. The PCL-5 asks about symptoms in the past month, regardless of when the trauma occurred. Delayed-onset PTSD is recognized and treatable.

Is PTSD treatable?

Yes. Evidence-based treatments include Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and sometimes medication. Many people with PTSD recover with appropriate treatment.