A lab at the University of Idaho has secured $1.3 million from the Department of Defense to improve how we detect post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using machine learning. Led by Assistant Professor Colin Xu, the project will analyze biological data from military personnel to identify those at higher risk of developing PTSD and tailor treatments accordingly.
Xu emphasizes the potential of early identification. “If we can pinpoint individuals at risk early on, we can connect them to effective treatments sooner,” he explains. This approach not only helps individuals but may also use fewer resources.
Statistics show that around 7% of veterans will experience PTSD in their lifetime, with the figure reaching 13% for female veterans. For those who served from the early 2000s to mid-2010s, the risk jumps to 29%. In contrast, the general population has a lifetime PTSD rate of about 6%. These numbers highlight the urgent need for effective strategies.
Clinical psychologist Jamie Derrick supports this research, noting the importance of prevention. “Most individuals wait until issues arise before seeking help. Focusing on prevention can lead to healthier, happier lives,” she says.
Symptoms of PTSD differ among individuals. While many associate PTSD with flashbacks, other signs include rumination, physical sensations of fear, insomnia, and mood swings. Xu aims to identify distinct subtypes of PTSD by using data collected from hormone monitors and vital-sign watches. His goal is to create a personalized treatment plan for individuals based on their biological data.
The research isn’t purely theoretical. Additional funding of $4.8 million will develop hormone monitors to gather even more data, while institutions like Tufts University, Walter Reed University, and Northwestern University are collaborating to recruit military personnel willing to participate.
Xu’s work also extends to exploring how military deployments affect families, which can lead to family violence, substance abuse, and other health issues. By understanding which families may be at risk, better support can be offered before problems arise.
This project is part of a broader initiative, with the completion date for Xu’s PTSD research set for 2029 and the family health analysis projected for 2028. With nearly all the grant money allocated to hiring researchers and students, the future looks promising for advancements in mental health support for veterans and their families.
For more on this topic, you can explore the Veterans Affairs site for additional statistics and resources on PTSD.
