PTSD Evaluation Form
Complete all 20 symptom items for the past month. The page stays visually simple, while the calculator grid shifts to three columns on large screens, two on medium screens, and one on mobile.
Example Data Table
| Case | Date | Cut Point | Total Score | Cluster Rule | Screening Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case A | 2026-03-12 | 31 | 18 | No | Below selected screening threshold |
| Case B | 2026-03-12 | 32 | 32 | Yes | Further assessment recommended |
| Case C | 2026-03-12 | 33 | 29 | Yes | Follow-up should be considered |
Formula Used
1. Total score
Total Score = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 + ... + Q20
2. Average item score
Average Score = Total Score ÷ 20
3. Endorsed symptom count
Any item scored 2 or higher is counted as endorsed.
4. Cluster rule check
Cluster B needs at least 1 endorsed item, Cluster C needs 1, Cluster D needs 2, and Cluster E needs 2.
5. Screening comparison
The selected cut point compares the total score with 31, 32, or 33. The report then shows whether the score rule,
the cluster rule, or both suggest follow-up assessment.
How to Use This Calculator
- Set the date, context, and optional event label.
- Choose the cut point you want to compare against.
- Confirm trauma exposure if that background is known.
- Rate every symptom from 0 to 4 for the past month.
- Submit the form to view the result summary above the form.
- Download CSV or PDF for documentation, review, or discussion.
For repeated monitoring, use the same cut point across sessions so trends remain easier to compare.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a diagnosis?
No. It is a structured screening tool. A licensed clinician should confirm any diagnosis through fuller history, interview, risk review, and clinical judgment.
2. What time period should I rate?
Rate each item based on the past month. Keeping the same time window supports more consistent screening and cleaner follow-up comparisons.
3. Why are there 20 symptom items?
The layout mirrors the DSM-5 PTSD symptom structure used in common screening approaches. Each item contributes to the total score and cluster review.
4. Why can I choose 31, 32, or 33?
Those values are commonly discussed screening cut points. Allowing the choice helps users document exactly which threshold they used in a report.
5. What does the cluster rule mean?
It checks whether enough symptoms were endorsed in each PTSD symptom group. This helps show whether the pattern of symptoms matches the expected cluster structure.
6. Can I use it for progress tracking?
Yes, for personal or clinical monitoring. Use the same timeframe, same cut point, and similar context notes so score changes remain easier to interpret.
7. What should I do if the score is high?
Arrange a professional evaluation soon. If distress is severe, daily functioning is breaking down, or safety feels uncertain, seek urgent local support immediately.
8. Can a lower score still matter?
Yes. Lower scores can still come with sleep loss, avoidance, panic, relationship strain, or work problems. Symptoms deserve attention when they disrupt life.