What is the duration required for PTSD symptoms to be classified as such?

For a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) according to the DSM-5, the symptoms must persist for at least one month following exposure to a traumatic event. This duration is essential because it distinguishes PTSD from acute stress disorder, which encompasses symptoms that occur between three days and one month after the trauma. Symptoms of PTSD can include intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity, all of which significantly distress the individual and impair functioning. Therefore, the specification of a minimum duration of one month is critical for diagnosing PTSD, ensuring that the symptoms are not just a transient reaction to the trauma.