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PTSD Specialist

Axis Psychiatry

Adult Psychiatrists located in Las Vegas, NV

If you’ve been through a past traumatic event and suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), board-certified adult psychiatrist Uzma Zafar, MD, and her team at Axis Psychiatry in Las Vegas, Nevada, are here for you. They take a biopsychosocial approach to care, offering counseling and medication to improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or requesting one online to learn more.

PTSD Q&A

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD is a mental health disorder triggered by terrifying events, such as trauma, abuse, or military combat. You might experience nightmares, flashbacks, or anxiety with PTSD and have problems at school, work, or in relationships. PTSD treatment helps improve symptoms and your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms, which might appear months or even years after a traumatic event, can include:

  • Recurrent, distressing memories
  • Flashbacks
  • Unsetting nightmares
  • Avoiding people or places
  • Depression or hopelessness
  • Memory problems or trouble concentrating
  • Relationship problems
  • Feeling detached from loved ones
  • Lack of interest in favorite activities
  • Being frightened or startled easily
  • Excessive drinking

At the first sign of PTSD or another mental health disorder like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, see Dr. Zafar and her team for an evaluation and treatment.

What are the risk factors for PTSD?

Your risk of PTSD increases with:

  • Military combat
  • Being a first responder
  • Childhood abuse
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Long-lasting trauma
  • Family history of mental health problems
  • Substance abuse
  • Lack of a good support network
  • Genetics

Not everybody experiences PTSD after a traumatic event, but if you’re at risk, see the Axis Psychiatry team at the first sign of symptoms.

How is PTSD diagnosed?

If you suspect you have PTSD, Dr. Zafar meets with you to discuss your symptoms and medical history. She completes a physical exam and comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to diagnose PTSD or another mental health disorder then develops a treatment plan.

How is PTSD treated?

Your individualized PTSD treatment plan is based on your symptoms and their severity. Dr. Zafar might recommend one or more of the following:

Medications

Taking certain medications can help you better cope with PTSD by reducing symptoms. Dr. Zafar works with you to find a medication regimen that fits your needs and monitors you to make dosage adjustments as needed. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or counseling, is talk therapy that helps you cope with symptoms and situations you encounter during everyday activities. Dr. Zafar takes a biopsychosocial approach to care, offering cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization, and more. She tailors each treatment to your individualized needs.

Don’t let PTSD negatively affect your life. Call the Axis Psychiatry office or book online today to get help alleviating symptoms and improving your quality of life.