Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is no longer officially divided into four subtypes in the DSM-5 (2013) or DSM-5-TR, but many clinicians and trauma experts still use a practical four-type model to describe how PTSD can present differently in people. Understanding these types helps with recognition and treatment.

1. Acute PTSD Symptoms appear within the first 3 months after the traumatic event and typically resolve within 6 months. This short-term form often responds well to early intervention like trauma-focused therapy.
2. Chronic PTSD Symptoms last longer than 6 months and can persist for years if untreated. Intrusive memories, hypervigilance, avoidance, and negative mood changes dominate daily life and require long-term therapy (e.g., CPT or EMDR).
3. Delayed-Onset PTSD Symptoms emerge at least 6 months after the trauma sometimes decades later. Common in veterans, childhood abuse survivors, or first responders. Triggers in later life (retirement, news events) can suddenly activate dormant trauma responses.
4. Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) Develops from prolonged, repeated trauma (e.g., childhood abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking). In addition to classic PTSD symptoms, people experience emotional dysregulation, distorted self-perception, and severe interpersonal difficulties. While not yet a separate DSM-5 diagnosis in the U.S., C-PTSD is recognized in the ICD-11 and widely used clinically.

Each type shares the core PTSD symptoms re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative thoughts but duration, onset timing, and added complexities differ. Early diagnosis and evidence-based treatments (CBT, EMDR, medication) significantly improve outcomes regardless of type.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of any PTSD type, consult a trauma-informed mental health professional for proper assessment and support.