Veteran and Military Behavioral Health Research Collaborative

Overview

Consistent with Syracuse University’s proud history of being recognized as the best place for veterans , the Center for Health Behavior Research & Innovation (CHB), in collaboration with the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), has developed a new interdisciplinary research program focused on understanding and improving the behavioral health, well-being, and resilience of veteran and military-connected populations.
 
We believe that investigating and addressing the unique physical, mental, and psychosocial challenges of this community both enhances their well-being and enriches our collective understanding of stress, resilience, trauma, community integration, and much more. Through collaborative interdisciplinary research, we can repay the debt of gratitude owed to our veterans and military members who selflessly served their country.

Unique Challenges and Disparities

A significant body of research supports that veterans represent a critical health disparities group that faces amplified and under-addressed behavioral health challenges in terms of physical and mental well-being, suicide, substance use, homelessness, and socioeconomic factors, among others. Several barriers to care amplify these health disparities, including stigma, bureaucratic hurdles, geographical barriers, and the transition from military to civilian life. Through focused research and the development of tailored interventions, we aim to alleviate these disparities and enhance their overall quality of life.

Research and Collaboration

The field of veteran studies crosses many disciplines and modes of inquiry, and by leveraging shared expertise and resources we aim to increase opportunities to secure external funding for research studies that inform the development and implementation of innovative health behavior programs, treatments, and services designed to meet the specific needs of veterans, military-connected populations, and their families.

Education and Training

We aim to support the development of educational programs and training initiatives that increase awareness, knowledge, and engagement related to the health and well-being of veterans and military families. Facilitated by the shared expertise of the Syracuse University faculty and strategic local/national partners, there is also an opportunity to inform the development of workshops, seminars, and online programs/certificates that help prepare future researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals to effectively serve this population.