Cracking the Code: Mastering the Differential Diagnosis of PTSD

At the completion of this activity, healthcare providers will be able to:

1. Differentiate PTSD from other mental health disorders, such as acute stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and borderline personality disorder, using DSM-5 diagnostic criteria.
2. Identify key overlapping and distinguishing symptoms between PTSD and common differential diagnoses to improve diagnostic accuracy.
3. Utilize evidence-based screening tools, such as the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), to assess trauma-related disorders.
4. Apply trauma-informed, team-based assessment strategies to minimize retraumatization, support effective interprofessional communication, and enhance patient trust across clinical settings.
5. Evaluate case studies to determine the most accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment pathways based on clinical findings.
6. Develop a structured approach for ruling in or ruling out PTSD in complex cases to optimize patient outcomes.