Mental Health

3DI investigators are active in researching moral injury, or severe distress and functional impairment resulting from traumatic exposures that violate an individual’s values and core beliefs. Investigators examine the effects of moral injury on mental health, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and suicidal ideation. Investigators are also engaged in examining sociocultural and systemic factors contributing to moral injury and ways to mitigate its effects through therapeutic interventions and support systems.

3DI investigators have contributed to improved clinical treatment and care delivery for moral injury and PTSD. Their work encompasses the physical and mental health consequences of PTSD, particularly its impact on cardiovascular health, chronic illnesses, and overall well-being. They explore the psychological underpinnings of the disorder, examining cognitive and emotional processes to develop and refine therapeutic interventions. They have used advanced statistical methods in observational research to identify effective treatment modalities. Additionally, these researchers delve into the psychosocial aspects of PTSD, including the impact of trauma on relationships and social functioning, and investigate interventions that enhance social support and resilience. Their work includes the development and testing of innovative therapeutic interventions, such as technology-based and integrative therapies. 3DI investigators have been internationally recognized in their contributions to this area.

3DI investigators are dedicated to advancing suicide prevention research, particularly within high-risk populations such as veterans and older adults. Their work involves identifying and analyzing behavioral, environmental, and psychological risk factors for suicide to develop precise, evidence-based interventions. They focus on the psychological impact of moral injury and its link to suicidal behavior, creating therapeutic approaches to mitigate this risk. These researchers also examine the intersections of PTSD, substance use disorders, and suicide. By identifying demographic and psychological predictors of suicidal behavior, they aim to inform targeted preventative measures. 3DI investigators are striving to understand the complex factors leading to suicide and to implement comprehensive, evidence-based strategies to prevent it, ultimately improving mental health outcomes for high-risk populations.

3DI investigators have examined eating disorders among military personnel and veterans. Their work aims to identify the psychological and emotional factors contributing to disordered eating and to develop targeted interventions that support recovery and promote healthy eating habits.

3DI investigators are evaluating the treatment of sleep disorders in veteran populations. Their work includes identifying the underlying causes and risk factors of sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and sleep apnea, and developing effective treatment interventions. They study the impact of sleep disorders on overall health and well-being, aiming to improve diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies to enhance sleep quality and, consequently, the quality of life for affected individuals. Their work is focused on implementing best practices into care.

3DI Investigators engaged in research related to Moral Injury:
-    Shira Maguen, PhD, MA
-    Natalie Purcell, PhD, MPA

3DI Investigators engaged in research related to PTSD:
-    Beth E. Cohen, MD, MAS
-    Lizabeth Goldstein, PhD
-    Nicholas Holder, PhD
-    Asale Hubbard, PhD
-    Shira Maguen, PhD, MA
-    Rachel Ranney, PhD
-    Karen Seal, MD

3DI Investigators engaged in research related to Suicide Prevention:
-    Amy Byers, PhD, MPH
-    Shira Maguen, PhD, MA

3DI Investigators engaged in research related to Disordered Eating:
-    Patrycja Klimek-Johnson, PhD
-    Shira Maguen, PhD, MA

3DI Investigators engaged in research related to sleep disorders:
-    Linda Chao, PhD
-    Lizabeth Goldstein, PhD
-    Kathleen Sarmiento, MD, MPH