Take the check
The PC-PTSD-5 is a brief screen used after a frightening, dangerous or traumatic event — an accident, assault, disaster, loss, or anything that overwhelmed you. If you've been through something like that, answer for how the last month has been.
Free PTSD self-check
5 questions · under 2 minutes · no sign-up, nothing stored
What your score means
Each yes scores one point, out of five.
- 0–2 — below the threshold. Below the usual screening cut-off. If something still feels unresolved, it's worth talking about regardless.
- 3–5 — at or above the threshold. A positive screen. This is a reason to talk to a professional about a fuller assessment — not a diagnosis, and not something to carry alone.
What actually helps after trauma
None of this replaces support, but all of it is worth doing while you decide:
- Don't force the memory, don't bury it either. Avoiding all reminders keeps trauma frozen; forcing yourself to relive it can re-traumatise. Gentle, supported processing is the middle path — which is what trauma therapy provides.
- Anchor in the present. When a memory intrudes, name five things you can see and feel right now. Grounding reminds your body the danger is over.
- Protect sleep and routine. Trauma scrambles both. Regular meals, movement and a steady sleep window give your nervous system a floor to stand on.
- Keep connection, even small. Numbing and withdrawal are classic trauma responses and they make it worse. One safe person you stay in contact with matters.
- Go easy on alcohol and substances. They numb short-term and deepen trauma symptoms long-term. If you're leaning on them, that's worth mentioning to someone.
When self-help isn't enough
Self-help steadies the ground, but trauma often needs more than steadying. If the nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance or numbness have lasted beyond a month and are shaping your days, that's the stage for proper support. PTSD responds well to specific trauma-focused therapies — and these are much safer done with a trained professional than attempted alone. Reaching out isn't weakness after what you've been through; it's the thing that lets it heal.
Talking to someone about it
A Lume Live session is a confidential 1:1 conversation with Sachin Bajaj, who holds an M.Sc in Clinical Psychology (Gurugram University) and a PGDGC from Jamia Millia Islamia. Sessions are ₹499 for 45 minutes, with your first at ₹249 using code FIRST50 — priced so that finding out whether it helps doesn't require asking anyone for money.
Nothing is shared with your parents, school, college or employer, and you can book using a first name only. For most people that matters more than the price.
Book a first session — ₹249
One 45-minute conversation. Pick your own slot and get the invite immediately. No package, no commitment to a course of treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is this test free and private?
Completely. No sign-up, no email, no payment. Your answers aren't stored, sent or seen by anyone — they stay in your browser for the length of the check and are gone when you close the tab.
Does this diagnose PTSD?
No. The PC-PTSD-5 is a brief screen, not a diagnostic tool. A positive result means a fuller assessment is worth pursuing — only a qualified clinician can diagnose PTSD.
What counts as 'trauma'?
Any event that was frightening, dangerous or overwhelming — an accident, assault, abuse, disaster, sudden loss, a frightening medical event, or witnessing something terrible. Trauma is about impact, not how it compares to others'.
What is the PC-PTSD-5?
The Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 is a five-item yes/no screen used widely in healthcare settings. Three or more yes answers is the usual threshold for a positive screen.
Is it anonymous?
Yes. No name, email or phone number to take it, and nothing recorded. If you later book a session, a first name is enough.