DSW CANDIDATES

Emily Stultz

LCSW, CADC

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Female Veterans: Understanding the Biopsychosocial Implications in Later Adulthood

Abstract

This presentation aims to provide an objective exploration of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among female veterans as they age amidst a backdrop of research that predominantly centers on male veterans. Through an examination of the unique experiences and challenges encountered by female veterans, the objective of this presentation is to cultivate a deeper comprehension of how PTSD intricately impacts the mental and physical well-being of female veterans. Ultimately, this knowledge will serve as a cornerstone for the creation of finely tuned interventions poised to elevate the quality of life and foster enduring resilience in the face of the complexities posed by PTSD. Throughout the presentation, we will analyze the challenges faced by female veterans and examine how PTSD affects their overall physical and mental well-being. By examining female veterans’ challenges and stressors objectively, we can identify areas requiring support and devise precise and effective programming and service delivery. We will undertake a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors influencing PTSD within this demographic, with the overarching objective of uncovering insights crucial for crafting tailored and effective support mechanisms that are intended to empower female veterans to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Bio

Emily W. Stultz is an accomplished scholar with a diverse academic background. She holds an A.S. in Liberal Studies from Middlesex Community College, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Liberty University, and an M.S. in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. Currently, she is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Kentucky. Emily has been recognized for her academic achievements by two prestigious honor societies: Omicron Delta Kappa and Phi Alpha.

Emily is a Research Project Director at the Catherine Cutler Institute at the University of Maine, specializing in Public Health and Health Policy, and owns a small private practice in Maine. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at UMass Global, where she teaches MSW courses, such as substance use diagnostics and treatment, and field seminars. Emily’s research interests include posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. Her Doctoral Capstone Project focuses on the biopsychosocial implications of posttraumatic stress disorder in female veterans as they age.

As part of her Capstone Project, Emily authored a journal paper titled “Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Female Veterans: A Systematic Review of the Biopsychosocial Implications in Later Adulthood,” which has been submitted to F1000Research. Her work has also been published in Social Work Today magazine, including a Letter to the Editor and an article on Suicide Prevention in the veteran population. Emily’s research has focused on identifying the biological, psychological, and social implications of posttraumatic stress disorder on female veterans in later adulthood, and she has made significant contributions to the field of social work and public health.