Do I Have PTSD Quiz?
If you’re wondering “Do I have PTSD?”, this brief self-assessment can help you understand whether your symptoms may be consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder.
👉 Click the link below to complete the PTSD quiz.This quiz is not a diagnosis, but it can help determine whether a professional evaluation may be helpful.
What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a medical mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD is not a sign of weakness—it is the brain’s response to overwhelming stress that affects how emotions, memories, and safety are processed.
PTSD may develop after:
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Combat or military exposure
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Sexual or physical assault
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Serious accidents or medical trauma
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Natural disasters
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Childhood abuse or neglect
Symptoms often persist long after the event has passed and may interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and sleep. PTSD can also occur alongside other conditions such as anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or eating disorders.
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Common PTSD Symptoms
People with PTSD may experience symptoms from one or more of the following categories:
Intrusive Thoughts and Memories
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Recurrent, distressing memories of the trauma
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Flashbacks or nightmares
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Emotional or physical distress when reminded of the event
Avoidance
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Avoiding people, places, conversations, or activities linked to the trauma
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Emotional numbing or withdrawal
Negative Changes in Mood and Thinking
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Persistent guilt, shame, or negative beliefs about oneself or others
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Difficulty concentrating or remembering details
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Loss of interest in activities
Arousal and Reactivity
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Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
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Irritability or anger outbursts
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Difficulty sleeping
If these symptoms last longer than one month and interfere with daily life, professional evaluation is recommended.
How Is PTSD Treated?
PTSD is highly treatable, especially when addressed early. Treatment often includes a combination of medication management, therapy, education, and supportive lifestyle strategies.
Medication Management for PTSD
A licensed mental health provider can help determine whether medication may be appropriate. Common medication categories include:
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SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Examples: sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), escitalopram (Lexapro) -
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
Examples: venlafaxine (Effexor XR), duloxetine (Cymbalta) -
Anxiolytics
Example: buspirone (Buspar) -
Atypical Antidepressants
Examples: mirtazapine (Remeron), trazodone -
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Examples: amitriptyline, nortriptyline, imipramine
In some cases, mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medications may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Medication can help reduce symptom intensity, improve sleep, and support emotional regulation when prescribed and monitored by a qualified professional.
Therapy Options for PTSD
Psychotherapy is a core component of PTSD treatment and helps individuals develop skills to manage trauma-related thoughts and emotions.
Common therapy approaches include:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Trauma-focused talk therapy
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Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
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Family or couples therapy
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Integrative therapy approaches
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Adjunctive therapies, such as music therapy
Therapy helps patients build coping strategies, reduce avoidance behaviors, and regain a sense of control and safety.
Where Can I Get PTSD Treatment?
At Pine Ridge Mental Healthcare, we provide individualized PTSD treatment plans using evidence-based care. Our approach focuses on:
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Thoughtful medication management
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Education about trauma and nervous system regulation
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Reducing unnecessary long-term medication use when possible
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Supporting lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and physical activity
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Ongoing follow-up to monitor progress
We offer both in-person and virtual appointments.
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Advanced Treatment Options for PTSD
For individuals with PTSD who do not experience adequate symptom relief with traditional therapy or medication, advanced treatment options may be considered. At Pine Ridge Mental Healthcare, we offer both ketamine-assisted treatment and Spravato® (esketamine nasal spray) as part of a comprehensive, medically supervised approach for eligible patients.
These treatments are typically considered for treatment-resistant symptoms and are provided alongside ongoing psychiatric care and monitoring.
Learn more about:
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PTSD FAQ
Can an online quiz diagnose PTSD?
No. A PTSD quiz can help identify symptoms but does not replace a professional evaluation by a licensed provider.
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How long does PTSD last?
PTSD symptoms may last months or years if untreated. With proper care, many people experience significant improvement or remission.
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Is PTSD treatable?
Yes. PTSD is highly treatable with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
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Can PTSD develop years after trauma?
Yes. Some individuals experience delayed-onset PTSD, where symptoms appear months or years after the traumatic event.
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Do I need medication for PTSD?
Not everyone needs medication. Treatment is individualized and may include therapy alone, medication alone, or both.
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Can PTSD be treated through telehealth?
Yes. Many aspects of PTSD care, including medication management and therapy, can be effectively provided via telehealth.
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Can ketamine help PTSD symptoms?
Ketamine may be considered for some individuals with PTSD, particularly when symptoms have not improved with standard treatments. It is provided under medical supervision and is not appropriate for everyone.
What is Spravato and how is it different from ketamine?
Spravato® is a prescription nasal spray containing esketamine. It is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and may be considered in select PTSD cases when clinically appropriate.
Are ketamine and Spravato first-line treatments for PTSD?
No. These treatments are typically considered after traditional therapies and medications have not provided sufficient relief.
Where Can I Get PTSD Treatment?
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At Pine Ridge Mental Healthcare, we’ve found long-term success using a variety of approaches to mental health conditions with effective treatment plans. Getting your symptoms under control is a key step in managing your life.
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Our team works to reduce your reliance on medications by educating you about the different tools available and how life situations can affect your mood. We also take into account nutrition and physical activity and how it affects your health. And we help keep you on track with regular check-ins to monitor how you are progressing.
For more information about mental health disorders, finding treatment near me, or for help with a virtual online visit, schedule an appointment online or over the phone at Pine Ridge Mental Healthcare. If you are interested in other services we provide, check out our services page.
About The Author
Nicole Mason, DMSc, PA-C, Psychiatry CAQ
Dr. Nicole Mason is a distinguished medical professional and accomplished psychiatry physician associate/assistant (PA), known for her exceptional contributions to the field of medicine and psychiatry. In 2003, she graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Chemistry degree with highest distinction in the curriculum.
She then graduated from Midwestern University’s PA program where she completed a master’s project on the concept of international PAs, leading to that year’s Master’s Project Award. This original research was later published in PAEA. Upon completion of he PA degree, she transitioned into clinical care and education.
Fueled by her desire to make a profound impact on people's lives, she embarked on a pursuit of medicine and obtained her Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc) degree from the University of Lynchburg. This achievement symbolizes her dedication, hard work, and passion for advancing medical knowledge and providing compassionate care to patients.
Over her tenure as a PA, she has developed a deep passion for the underserved community, with prior medical missions’ trips both abroad and in her home community. With a heart set on helping those with mental health challenges, she has focused her career on psychiatry. Her compassionate approach to patient care, coupled with her extensive knowledge and experience in teaching and in science, has earned her the trust of both her peers and patients.
Further Resources
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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
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Website: NIMH PTSD Information
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Description: Provides comprehensive information on PTSD, including symptoms, treatment options, and research.
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
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Website: SAMHSA PTSD Resources
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Description: Offers resources and support for those experiencing PTSD, including hotlines and treatment locators.
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Veterans Affairs (VA)
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Website: VA PTSD
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Description: Dedicated to supporting veterans with PTSD, providing resources, treatment options, and research information.
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American Psychological Association (APA)
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Website: APA PTSD
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Description: Provides articles, research, and information on the psychological aspects of PTSD and its treatment.
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Mayo Clinic
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Website: Mayo Clinic PTSD Overview
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Description: Offers a detailed overview of PTSD, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
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National Center for PTSD
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Website: National Center for PTSD
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Description: A part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, it provides extensive resources, research, and support for PTSD sufferers.
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Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
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Website: ADAA PTSD
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Description: Focuses on anxiety disorders, including PTSD, and offers resources for understanding and managing the condition.
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