Re-experiencing

• Unexpected or expected reoccurring, involuntary, and intrusive upsetting memories of the traumatic event

• Repeated upsetting dreams where the content of the dreams is related to the traumatic event

• The experience of some type of dissociation (for example, flashbacks) where you feel as though the traumatic event is happening again

• Strong and persistent distress upon exposure to cues that are either inside or outside of your body that are connected to your traumatic event

• Strong bodily reactions (for example, increased heart rate) upon exposure to a reminder of the traumatic event

Hyperarousal

• Irritability or aggressive behavior

• Impulsive or self-destructive behavior

• Feeling constantly "on guard" or like danger is lurking around every corner (or hypervigilance)

• Heightened startle response

• Difficulty concentrating

• Problems sleeping

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Avoidance

• The inability to remember an important aspect of the traumatic event

• Persistent and elevated negative evaluations about yourself, others, or the world (for example, "I am unlovable," or "The world is an evil place")

• Elevated self-blame or blame of others about the cause or consequence of a traumatic event

• A negative emotional state (for example, shame, anger, or fear) that is pervasive

• Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy

• Feeling detached from others

• The inability to experience positive emotions (for example, happiness, love, joy)

Changes in Thought

• Extreme thoughts about the world related to safety and danger

• Thoughts that you are somehow to blame for the trauma you experienced

• Negative thoughts about your own self-worth