Resources

Self-Assessment:
Post Traumatic Stress (PCL-5)

This is an easy initial screening tool to check for symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder. Like all screening self-tests, this is an educational tool designed to help you think about and reflect on your mental health and wellbeing. It is not a scientific or medical test, and is not designed to provide a diagnosis of any kind. Your answers will not be recorded.

If you are concerned about any aspect of your mental health, we encourage you to talk with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional. Members of BC Building Trades and the Construction Labour Relations Association of BC can call BuildStrong at 1.888.521.8611 to learn more about clinical support and treatment options.

Below is a list of problems that people sometimes have in response to a very stressful experience. Please read each problem carefully and then select the answer to indicate how much you have been bothered by that problem in the past month.

You have left 1 or more fields blank. Please ensure you have made a selection in all fields.

1. Repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience? (Select only one)

2. Repeated, disturbing dreams of the stressful experience? (Select only one)

3. Suddenly feeling or acting as if the stressful experience were actually happening again (as if you were actually back there reliving it)? (Select only one)

4. Feeling very upset when something reminded you of the stressful experience? (Select only one)

5. Having strong physical reactions when something reminded you of the stressful experience (for example, heart pounding, trouble breathing, sweating)? (Select only one)

6. Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings related to the stressful experience? (Select only one)

7. Avoiding external reminders of the stressful experience (for example, people, places, conversations, activities, objects, or situations)? (Select only one)

8. Trouble remembering important parts of the stressful experience? (Select only one)

9. Having strong negative beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world (for example, having thoughts such as: I am bad, there is something seriously wrong with me, no one can be trusted, the world is completely dangerous)? (Select only one)

10. Blaming yourself or someone else for the stressful experience or what happened after it? (Select only one)

11. Having strong negative feelings such as fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame? (Select only one)

12. Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy? (Select only one)

13. Feeling distant or cut off from other people? (Select only one)

14. Trouble experiencing positive feelings (for example, being unable to feel happiness or have loving feelings for people close to you)? (Select only one)

15. Irritable behavior, angry outbursts, or acting aggressively? (Select only one)

16. Taking too many risks or doing things that could cause you harm? (Select only one)

17. Being “superalert” or watchful or on guard? (Select only one)

18. Feeling jumpy or easily startled? (Select only one)

19. Having difficulty concentrating? (Select only one)

20. Trouble falling or staying asleep? (Select only one)

Your Score:

0-10 - Likely no PTSD symptoms
11-20 - Some mild symptoms – 
monitor how you’re feeling.
21-30 - Moderate symptoms – 
consider speaking to a professional.
31+ - Symptoms may indicate PTSD – 
reaching out for support is recommended.

Topical Links and Resources

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