​How can families help? Part Two: The Diagnostic Criteria

It is important to understand the symptoms of trauma and dissociation. In this installment we will focus upon the symptoms/signs of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),  dissociation, being one of them. In particular, the focus will be upon Complex or Type 2 PTSD. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is the compendium used in the field to aid in diagnosis and research. There are some differences between the criteria in the DSM and identified by researchers in the field, which, if you research the topic, you may find. The following is based upon the DSM-5 Criteria.
 
Criteria: A:

• The person was exposed to:
  • Death
  • Threatened death, actual or threatened serious injury, or actual/threatened sexual violence.
• These are experienced as a
  • Direct exposure
  • Witnessing it
  • Learning about the issue from a close associate
  • Indirect exposure to details of the trauma (common among first responders)

Criteria B:

• Re-experiencing the traumatic incident by
  • Unwanted distressing memories
  • Nightmares
  • Flashbacks
  • Emotional Distress
  • Physical/somatic reactivity

Criteria C

• Avoidance of things related the trauma
  • Avoidance of thoughts/feelings
  • Avoidance of trauma-related reminders

Criteria D

• Negative thoughts or emotions that worsened after the trauma
  • Problems recalling elements of the trauma
  • Excessive negative thoughts bout oneself or the world
  • Exaggerated blame of self or others for causing the incident
  • Persistent negative emotionality
  • Decreased interest in activities
  • Feeling isolated
  • Problems feeling positive emotions

Criteria E

• Trauma related anxiety/arousal/vigilance
  • Increase in irritability and aggression
  • Increase in risky and/or distractive behavior
  • Hypervigilance/mistrust
  • Heightened startle reaction
  • Problems concentrating associated with the trauma
  • Difficulty sleeping associated with the trauma

Criteria F

• Symptoms present for 1 month

Criteria G

• Symptoms create substantial distress and problems in one’s ability to function, socially, occupationally, etc.

Criteria H:

• The symptoms are not caused by medications, substances, or a medical condition

 
 
In the next installment, I will explore specific elements of these symptoms and how you may be able to help your loved one. 


​Ron