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DSW Showcase Student Presentation

Shannon Campbell

MSW, LCSW

Decoding the Enigma of Mental Health with Special Forces Operators

Concentration -

  • Monday, April 28, 2025 -
  • 2:30 pm
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Abstract

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.

Biography

Shannon Campbell is a doctoral candidate in Social Work at the University of Kentucky, specializing in Military Behavioral Health. She holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington (2013–2015) and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Lubbock Christian University (2012–2013). Shannon achieved her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification in 2019, her Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) certification in 2015, and her Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) certification in 2014.
Shannon's research focuses on Special Operation Forces (SOF), with an emphasis on developing and evaluating therapeutic treatments to mitigate mental health challenges within this population. Her work addresses the critical gap in mental health services during the transition from active duty to civilian life, driven by her dedication to creating impactful and tailored interventions for SOF members.
Prior to her doctoral studies, Shannon gained extensive experience in mental health care, collaborating with psychiatrists in private practices and nursing homes to support geriatric, mental health, and military populations. She has held leadership roles in nursing homes, hospice care, and served as the director of clinical services for a psychiatric hospital.
A member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) since 2017, Shannon has published research on mental health challenges within the SOF community and remains committed to advancing effective treatments for this vital group.