#Middlebury #Veterans #PTSD
VETERANS POST
By Freddy Groves
Do you ever wonder if you possibly have PTSD? The Department of Veterans Affairs has created a very short PTSD screening web page designed to see whether any symptoms you have could be related to post-traumatic stress disorder.
The screening test consists of five short questions. At the end you’ll click to submit and get your score.
It’s worth doing the screening if you have any doubts or concerns after going through a traumatic or life-threatening event. PTSD can arrive either immediately after an event or later, or even come and go. It can affect anyone of any age. There’s no set pattern, but there are certain symptoms, and that’s where this short screening comes into play.
Go online to www.ptsd.va.gov/screen and click to “Start Screen.” No, you don’t need to give any personal information or even sign in.
When you get to the end of the questions, click on “Next Steps” and see the information that’s offered, including the phone number for immediate help: 800-273-8255. Press 1 if you’re a veteran. Or you can text 838255.
The instructions suggest you take a screenshot or print the score page to take with you to a health-care provider. Probably not a bad idea, because it gives your provider a place to begin.
Go to www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/ptsd_basics.asp for more information about PTSD. Scroll down to the three information blocks and explore what they offer. “Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment” (PDF) is a 16-page guide to PTSD basics and is a good place to get a handle on it.
Remember that this screening isn’t a true diagnosis. Only a real provider can diagnose PTSD, but this can give you a start in the right direction if you have concerns. Remember, too, that there are quite a few different treatments for PTSD, and the sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll feel better.
You’re not alone.
© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.
