The foundation of effectively preventing and treating psychological and behavioral health problems is knowledge of the factors responsible for their development and persistence. In our Epidemiological Investigations portfolio, epidemiologists and research psychologists develop and administer surveys, and analyze military medical and personnel data to estimate the prevalence of mental and behavioral health problems and identify risk factors for their development and persistence. A broad range of risk and protective factors are examined; these include pre-military experiences ( childhood environment), military and nonmilitary stressors and exposures, social relationships, resilience, personality traits, attitudes, cognitive factors, demographic characteristics, military characteristics, and environmental factors.
Our epidemiological investigative research provides empirically-based information about factors associated with development and persistence of psychological and behavioral problems. We also study factors that protect against military personnel developing these problems. Our research supports the development of interventions that promote health and reduce the risk of psychological or behavioral health problems. It also assists with creating interventions that reduce symptoms and promote return to health in service members with psychological or behavioral health problems.
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery 7700 Arlington Blvd. Ste. 5113 Falls Church, VA 22042-5113 This is an official U.S. Navy website This is a Department of Defense (DoD) Internet computer system. General Navy Medical Inquiries (to Bureau of Medicine and Surgery): usn.ncr.bumedfchva.mbx.bumed-general-inquiries@mail.mil