(TNS) — A lab at the University of Idaho has received $1.3 million from the Department of Defense to explore ways of detecting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) early. They aim to use machine learning algorithms to analyze biological data from military personnel, helping identify who’s more likely to develop PTSD and what treatments might work best for them.
Assistant Professor Colin Xu, who leads the lab, believes this could transform how we approach mental health. “If we can find out who’s at risk early, we can guide them to the right treatments faster,” he says. This approach not only saves resources but also supports quicker recovery.
Statistics reveal that PTSD affects about 7% of veterans at some point in their lives. For female veterans, that figure jumps to 13%. Recent data shows that veterans serving between the early 2000s and the mid-2010s have a 29% chance of developing PTSD. In contrast, lifetime PTSD rates in the general population sit around 6%.
Clinical psychologist Jamie Derrick emphasizes the importance of prevention. According to her, timely interventions could help individuals build resilience against traumatic experiences. “Most people only seek help when something goes wrong,” she notes. “Investing in prevention is crucial for a happier and healthier life.”
PTSD is complex and can manifest differently among individuals. While flashbacks are common, symptoms can also include anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings. Xu’s research seeks to identify unique subtypes of PTSD. By analyzing data from hormone patches and vital-monitoring devices, he hopes to refine treatment options based on individual needs. “Instead of guessing which treatments might work, we can offer a personalized approach,” he explains.
Xu has a Ph.D. in psychology and has previously researched antidepressants. He plans to apply similar methods in the PTSD study, but he requires biological data from participants to develop effective software.
An additional $4.8 million in federal grants will fund the creation of monitoring devices that gather biological information. Collaborating with other institutions, the team plans to recruit military personnel to wear these devices, both those with PTSD and those without.
Xu is also involved in a related project, receiving $361,000 from a $1.9 million federal fund to study how military deployments affect family dynamics. Understanding which family members are at higher risk due to these events can lead to better support systems and preventative measures.
The PTSD study is expected to conclude in 2029, while the family dynamics project will wrap up in 2028. Most of the Department of Defense funding will go toward hiring two postdoctoral researchers and three graduate students.
Overall, this research could change the landscape of mental health support for military personnel and their families, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and tailored care. For more information on PTSD and related mental health statistics, you can refer to the National Institute of Mental Health.
