GSN, Adjustment Disorders in the US Military Study, FAQ

Adjustment Disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder in the Active Duty U.S. Military population. They are broadly characterized by one's difficulty adjusting in response to a stressor. The symptoms can include excessive worrying about the stressor, recurrent and distressing thoughts about the stressor, or constant rumination about the implications of the stressor. Those diagnosed with an Adjustment Disorder may exhibit depressed mood, anxiety, avoidance behaviors, or impulsivity. The symptoms of Adjustment Disorders can cause significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. Within the US Military population, there are strong links between Adjustment Disorders and suicides, as well as high rates of Adjustment Disorder-related evacuations from combat zones.

There are two main goals for the AjD Research Program. The first is to develop an improved diagnostic tool for Adjustment Disorders in the US Military population. The second is to develop a comprehensive framework and recommendations to improve diagnosis and treatment for Adjustment Disorders in the U.S. Military population.

There is no cost to you to take part in this study.

We will make every effort to protect your privacy and confidentiality; however, there are always risks of breach of information security and information loss. You will be provided a unique Participant ID that you will use to complete the study. This ID will be used in place of your name so that information you provide is not directly associated with your personal information. Only approved members of the research team will have access to the document linking Participant IDs to participant names and information. The document will be stored securely with the Principal Investigator of the study.

Any information you provide in the course of this study that is used in the dissemination or publication of this study will be de-identified and presented as anonymous data. After the completion of the study, the document linking your name to your Participant ID will be destroyed.

Your participation in this study would be voluntary. You can choose to withdraw your consent at any time. If you choose to withdraw from the study, it will not affect your eligibility for care or any other benefits you are entitled to. Any information you provide up to the point of withdrawal may be used for analysis.

If you wish to withdraw at any time, please contact the study team.  If at any time you have any questions or concerns about the study, or about your participation in the study, please contact the study team by phone at 301-295-1951.