Which of the following is NOT a criterion for diagnosing PTSD?

In the context of diagnosing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the criteria outlined in the DSM-5 include specific symptoms that must be present for a diagnosis. The persistent re-experience of the traumatic event, avoidance of reminders of the event, and negative alterations in cognition and mood are all established criteria for PTSD.

The first criterion, persistent re-experience, involves symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks related to the trauma. This reflects the continuous impact of the traumatic event on the individual’s psyche, a key feature of PTSD.

Avoidance is another significant criterion where individuals steer clear of reminders or conversations about the trauma, as a coping mechanism to reduce distress. This symptom is essential for diagnosing PTSD, as it indicates the person's struggle to manage their emotional response to the trauma.

Negative alterations in cognition and mood pertain to changes in the way individuals perceive themselves and others after the trauma. This includes feelings of despair, detachment from others, or distorted blame related to the traumatic experience, all vital for the diagnosis.

In contrast, increased appetite and weight gain are not associated with the diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Instead, symptoms related to changes in appetite are generally linked to other disorders or may occur as a secondary effect of anxiety