DSW Candidate – Shannon Campbell, 2:30 PM – 3:45 PM
$0.00
Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars 2025 Event!
Decoding the Enigma of Mental Health with Special Forces Operators
DSW Candidate – Shannon Campbell, mSW, LCSW
Monday, April 28, 2025
2:30 PM- 3:45 PM Eastern Time Zone
Credit Hours: 1.0
Description
Decoding the Enigma of Mental Health with Special Forces Operators
Within the conventional military, there are an elite few who are a part of special operation forces (SOF). The SOF are known as the “James Bond” of the military. Research of mental health during active duty for this population has shown to be stable with increased resilience, even though the suicide rate for the SOF population is 39.3% compared to the conventional military at 22.9%. This presentation will explore the missing link between the SOF and mental health through a systematic literature review (SLR), identify a theoretical foundation grounded in evidenced-based practices in the conceptual paper, and build a psychoeducational program addressing stigma and barriers in the SOF population within the practice application paper.
The SLR examined specific treatment modalities that are pertinent to this population when addressing mental health issues. The conceptual paper identified theories for treatment of the SOF while extrapolating research from the SLR. The conceptual paper highlighted the use of social learning theory utilized throughout basic military training and cognitive behavioral theory. These theories constructed a foundation for the SOF population during the transition from active duty to civilian life, using a psychoeducational program based on research and evidence-based practice. Lastly, the practice application paper has utilized research and evidence-based practice to produce a program, specifically for the SOF population, to address mental health issues while breaking through the stigma and elusive barriers that plague this population.
Upon completion of this conference, participants will be able to:
- Identify the difference between special operations forces and the conventional military.
- Describe the cultural differences while highlighting the reduced mental health support for SOF.
- Examine the theories within the presentation and reasonably assess the foundation of the theories implemented.
- Summarize the proposed program, exemplifying the need for change with the SOF population.
Delivery Method: Live Interactive Training via Zoom Video Conferencing
Credit Hours: 1.0 (ACE)
Target Audience: This conference is intended for social workers and students.
Accreditation: University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Provider # 1377, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/29/22-9/29/25. Social workers participating in this conference will receive up to 15 general continuing education credits.
Claiming CE Credit: Instructions for claiming CE credit will be disseminated at the beginning of each session.
Questions: If you have any questions regarding CE credit or to report a grievance, please contact Christina Krantz at Christina.Krantz@uky.edu. For technical assistance, please contact lmshelp@uky.edu.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in these presentations are those of the individual presenters and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of the University of Kentucky or the College of Social Work. The inclusion of any topics, perspectives, or discussions is intended for academic engagement and does not constitute endorsement by the institution.
