Self-test · PSS-SR5

PTSD Test (PSS-SR5)

Twenty questions about common reactions after a traumatic event — such as unwanted memories, avoidance, low mood and feeling on edge — over the past month.

20 questionsAbout 7 minConfidential resultValidated scientific scale
Read about the test before you start

Ready to start?

Here is a list of problems that people sometimes have after experiencing a traumatic event. First, think of the traumatic event that bothers you the most. Then read each statement carefully and choose the answer that best describes how often you have had the problem, and how much it has bothered you, over the past month. Rate each problem with respect to the traumatic event you have in mind. For example, if you talked to a friend about the trauma once during the past month, choose “Once a week or less”, because once a month is less than once a week.

1Read each question calmly
2Pick what fits you best
3See your result and what it means
At the end we email you your result and save it in your account.
Question 1

1 – 4 to choose an answer · Enter for next

Done! Where should we send your result?

Enter your details and we’ll email you your result and what it means, and save it in your Kind Mind account so you can follow changes.

Your details are confidential and never shared.

Calculating your result...

0/ 63
Result

If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local emergency services right away or someone you trust — you can also talk to one of our therapists now.
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What does your result mean? Read the details below

This test is an awareness tool and does not replace a diagnosis by a specialist.

What is the PSS-SR5?

The PTSD Symptom Scale – Self-Report for DSM-5 (PSS-SR5) was developed by Professor Edna Foa and colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania. It measures the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as described in DSM-5, the diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals.

Its 20 questions cover the four groups of PTSD symptoms: re-experiencing (unwanted memories, nightmares, flashbacks), avoidance of reminders, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and changes in arousal and reactivity such as irritability, poor sleep and feeling on guard. Each is rated from 0 to 4, giving a total from 0 to 80. A total of 28 or more is the research cut-off suggesting probable PTSD.

Who should take it?

The PSS-SR5 is for adults who have lived through, witnessed or been repeatedly exposed to a frightening or distressing event — for example an accident, assault, abuse, war, a serious illness or a disaster — and who are still affected by it.

How to take it

Before you start, bring to mind the one traumatic event that bothers you most now. Then, for each statement, choose how often it has happened and how much it has bothered you during the past month. Take your time and pause if you need to — it takes about ten minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose PTSD?

No. It is a screening and severity measure. Only a qualified professional can diagnose PTSD after a full assessment, which also considers how long symptoms have lasted and how they affect your life.

What if answering the questions upsets me?

That is a common reaction. You can stop at any time, take a break, and come back later. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to someone you trust or one of our therapists.

Can PTSD be treated?

Yes. Trauma-focused therapies, such as prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy, are effective for many people, even years after the event.

What does your result mean?

  1. 0 – 27Below the PTSD cut-offBelow the probable-PTSD threshold
  2. 28 – 80Possible PTSDWorth seeing a trauma therapist

Your result is not a diagnosis, it is an indicator. A therapist reads it together with your whole story.

Medical review and sources

Sources: Foa EB, McLean CP, Zang Y, et al. Psychometric properties of the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale Interview for DSM-5 (PSSI-5) and the PSS-SR5. Psychological Assessment. 2016;28(10):1159–1165.
Rights: PSS-SR5 © 2013 Edna B. Foa. Used with permission.
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