PTSD Formulation Diagram – Exploring the psychological process from trauma to current symptoms and coping strategies.

1. Identify the core trauma event by answering "What happened to you?" and "What did your mind and body do during the trauma?"
2. Map out "My trauma memories" by noting which parts return as unwanted memories, flashbacks, or nightmares, and describe how they feel different now (e.g., like it's happening again, emotionally intense, sensory re-experiencing, fragmented).
3. Document "What I thought then" by recalling thoughts during the trauma ("What was going through my mind during the trauma?").
4. Record "What I think now" by examining current beliefs about yourself, symptoms, actions, and others' perceptions.
5. List "Triggers" that activate trauma memories or reactions.
6. Describe "What I experience now" by detailing current symptoms, emotions, or bodily sensations.
7. Analyze "How I cope" with current experiences.
8. Note where "Memories remain unprocessed" and "Beliefs remain unchanged" to identify areas needing therapeutic intervention.