DSM-5 Criteria for PTSD
There are specific requirements that must be met for a diagnosis of PTSD.
The most recent text revision to the DSM-5 also includes a criterion change for post-traumatic stress disorder in children.
The Difference Between PTSD and Stress
Not everyone who has experienced atraumatic eventwill develop PTSD.
Illustration by JR Bee, Verywell
After a traumatic event, it is normal to have strong feelings of anxiety, sadness, or stress.
However, these symptoms do not necessarily mean that you have PTSD.
Think of it this way: Headaches can be a symptom of a bigger problem, such as meningitis.
Get our printable guide to help you ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment.
However, having a headache does not necessarily mean that you have meningitis.
The same is true for PTSD.
Get our printable guide to help you ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment.
This eventual lessening of distressing symptoms can happen for some peoplebut not for everyone.
Takeaways
Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD.
However, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
5th ed, text revision.
Washington, D.C.; 2022.
2017;7(1):7. doi:10.3390/bs7010007
American Psychiatric Association.Posttraumatic stress disorder.
2016;5(11):105.
Published 2016 Nov 22. doi:10.3390/jcm5110105
National Institute of Mental Health.Post-traumatic stress disorder.
