What is a common symptom of PTSD involving mood changes?

A common symptom of PTSD that involves mood changes is characterized by a persistently negative mood. Individuals with PTSD often experience a range of negative emotions including fear, anger, guilt, and shame, which can contribute to a pervasive sense of hopelessness and helplessness. This persistent negative mood can affect daily functioning and interpersonal relationships, leading to isolation and further emotional distress.

In the context of PTSD, this symptom is integral to understanding the impact of trauma on an individual's emotional well-being. Persistent negative mood is consistent with the criteria outlined in the DSM-5-TR, where individuals may struggle to experience positive emotions, indicating a significant alteration in mood following the trauma.

While feelings of depersonalization might occur in PTSD, they do not specifically indicate a change in mood but rather a disconnection from oneself or one's surroundings. Increased social activity and exaggerated positive beliefs about life are not typical for those suffering from PTSD, as these individuals often withdraw from social interactions and may struggle to maintain a hopeful outlook on life due to their traumatic experiences. Thus, the identification of persistently negative mood specifically aligns with the characteristic mood alterations seen in PTSD.