Research studies Recruiting studies

Recruiting studies

The Atlas Institute undertakes large-scale research studies in partnership with our lived experience network, researchers and community organizations. Our recruiting research studies are listed below.

Mental health RCMP Veterans Transition to post-service life

Thriving after service (recruiting former uniformed Royal Canadian Mounted Police members)

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We are seeking additional perspectives from Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Veterans for this study. The aim of this project is to examine flourishing (positive mental health) within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and RCMP Veteran population. This study will employ a survey-based, cross-sectional, mixed-method design to assess the prevalence of flourishing among CAF and RCMP Veterans, and identify sociodemographic, psychological, psychosocial, intersectional and service access/use factors that may predict flourishing among Veterans. With this present project, we will be able to connect our findings to the greater body of work surrounding flourishing and examine how Veterans may be similar to and/or differ from the general population in this aspect. It is expected that findings from this study will provide important information about what factors contribute to flourishing in Canadian Veterans. The results of this study are anticipated to generate evidence that can be disseminated to inform recommendations for program improvements. It is also expected that these findings will provide useful data which will be translated into evidence-based mental health promotion resources that provide Veterans with relevant and accessible information on practical ways to foster flourishing in their lives, with the goal of empowering them to build and enhance the skills they need to support their mental health independently.

No medication involved Online survey

Led by: Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families

Mental health Transition to post-service life Women Veterans

Women’s well-being in post-service life (recruiting women currently transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces)

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The study uses a one-time survey to gather information from women Veterans. The survey asks questions about different aspects of mental health and well-being during transition. This includes questions on psychological aspects like how they adapt to stress, behaviours like alcohol or drug use, social aspects like if they are married, and broader issues like discrimination. The goal is to understand how these different aspects affect their mental health and well-being. The survey also asks about access to and use of services. The goal is to understand if certain services are linked to better mental health and well-being.

No medication involved Online survey

Led by: Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families

Health and well-being Mental health Relationships Women Veterans

Understanding the reproductive and mental health of UK and Canadian ex-servicewomen

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This study aims to better understand the reproductive and mental health of women who have previously served in the Canadian or UK armed forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or UK police forces. Very little research has focused on this group, even though existing studies suggest that women who serve may face higher risks of reproductive and sexual health concerns, such as menstrual problems, sexually transmitted infections or unplanned pregnancies. Women who served in the Canadian or UK military, the RCMP or UK police are invited to take part in an online survey about their general health, well-being, service history and past and current reproductive, sexual and mental health. Researchers will compare responses within and between the two countries to identify patterns, gaps in care and areas where better support may be needed after service.

No medication involved Online survey

Led by: The Centre for Military Women's Research at Anglia Ruskin UniversityIn partnership with: Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families

Sleep

A study to learn about the sleep health of Canadian Veterans and their Family members

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This study is focused on establishing the prevalence of sleep challenges, including diagnosed and suspected disorders and gaining an understanding of factors associated with sleep (e.g., substance use, life events), as well as the strategies Veterans and Family Members use to support their sleep. This study involves completing a self-report online survey that will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. This survey will ask questions to find out how common sleep issues are. The survey will also ask about sleep behaviours and any methods used to help with sleep.

No medication involved Online survey

Led by: Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families

Brain imaging Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Brain Measures Linked to Hyperarousal in PTSD using MRI Imaging

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The purpose of this magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study is to examine a particular type of brain image (neuromelanin-sensitive MRI) that has been shown to be related to a brain chemical called noradrenaline. The function of this chemical may be changed in PTSD and could be connected to experiences of elevated fear and arousal. In this study we will measure this type of brain image and see if it is related to PTSD symptoms or if it is related to how your body and brain responds to an uncomfortable stimulation (mild electrical stimulation to the hand during an aversive conditioning task). If we find that this brain image is related to these symptoms and responses, it would show promise and could be tested in future studies as a technique that could be used as a brain marker to help guide treatment in PTSD. Hyperarousal symptoms in PTSD can lead to significant functional impairment and other negative outcomes, however, no specific brain-based treatment guidelines currently exist and therefore it is important for research to work towards developing these kinds of brain markers.

No medication involved In-person

Led by: The University of Ottawa's Institute for Mental Health Research at the Royal

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Non-recruiting

Our ongoing studies that are closed to new participants.

Completed

Our studies that are finished and closed.