Final answer:
It is false that PTSD symptoms must last at least one year for a diagnosis. Symptoms must persist for more than one month according to the DSM-5. A PTSD diagnosis can be made if symptoms severely impact functioning, regardless of duration beyond one month.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) must last at least one year for a diagnosis to be made is false. According to the DSM-5, the diagnostic manual for mental health conditions, PTSD symptoms must persist for at least one month after the traumatic event. PTSD, an anxiety disorder that results from experiencing severe psychological trauma, can have varying durations of symptoms.
The condition was notably observed among veterans of the Vietnam War, where it was often left undiagnosed or untreated for long periods. Ongoing symptoms can significantly impair one's functioning, but it is crucial to note that not all individuals with PTSD will experience symptoms for over a year and a diagnosis can still be made within a shorter timeframe if the symptoms are present and severe enough. Understanding the nature and duration of PTSD is essential for providing appropriate treatments and interventions for those affected by this condition.