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Home » Under Secretary for Management » Office of Medical Services » Deployment Stress Management Program (DSMP) » Take the Four Question PTSD Screener

The 4-item Primary Care Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder screen (PC-PTSD) is a simple and effective tool to identify symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The 4-item screen assesses key characteristics of PTSD.

It is not designed to diagnose but rather to help you identify symptoms of PTSD.

Here are the four questions:

In your life, have you ever had any experience that was so frightening, horrible, or upsetting that, in the past month, you...

1. Have had nightmares about it or thought about it when you did not want to? Yes No
2. Tried hard not to think about it or went out of your way to avoid situations that reminded you of it? Yes No
3. Were constantly on guard, watchful, or easily startled? Yes No
4. Felt numb or detached from others, activities, or your surroundings? Yes No

If you have answered "yes" to three (3) items or more it is considered "positive" and your screening results are consistent with symptoms of PTSD. As this screening is not a substitute for a clinical evaluation and cannot provide an actual diagnosis, it is recommended that you see a health professional for further assessment/evaluation.

Resources

There are many options for assistance. If the screening results suggested the need for further assessment/evaluation:

• Visit a primary or mental health care provider.
• If you are not sure about benefits or don’t have a primary care manager:
  Contact the Employee Consultation Service at MEDECS@state.gov or Call 202-663-1815.
• Contact the Deployment Stress Management Program at MEDDSMP@state.gov or Call 202-663-1903.
• Contact MHN Support Services are available through web, phone, and in-person.
  Internet: https://members.mhn.com/ company code: ‘unaccompaniedtour’.
  Phone: Call toll free, 24/7 at 1-800-213-5811