Dr. Carl Forkner, a distinguished Research Psychologist specializing in Veterans mental health and wellness, has been recognized with a prestigious award for his leadership in the international medical sector. The honor acknowledges his significant contributions to advancing understanding and treatment options for Veterans facing complex mental health challenges.
The award comes as Dr. Forkner continues his advocacy for improved Veterans healthcare and benefits in Arizona, where he has established himself as a prominent voice for the Veteran community. His work bridges critical gaps in mental healthcare services, particularly focusing on conditions that disproportionately affect military Veterans.
Building on his established expertise in Veterans’ mental health, Dr. Forkner is currently spearheading an ambitious nationwide project examining moral injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Veterans. This comprehensive research initiative, scheduled to take place across multiple locations in 2025, aims to deepen understanding of these interconnected conditions and develop more effective treatment approaches.
Moral injury, often described as psychological damage resulting from actions that violate one’s moral code, frequently accompanies PTSD in Veterans but has historically received less attention in research and treatment protocols. Dr. Forkner’s specialized research seeks to address this imbalance by examining how moral injury and PTSD interact, potentially leading to more holistic treatment approaches.
The nationwide study represents a significant advancement in Veterans mental health research, with implications that could extend beyond military populations to other high-stress professions. By examining these conditions across diverse Veteran populations, the research promises to yield insights that could transform treatment approaches.
Dr. Forkner’s dedication to Veterans’ wellbeing extends beyond his research work. As an advocate for Veterans healthcare and benefits in Arizona, he has consistently pushed for policy improvements and greater access to specialized mental health services. His Veterans mental health expertise has made him a valuable resource for both policymakers and healthcare providers seeking to improve services for former military personnel.
The recognition of Dr. Forkner’s leadership in the international medical sector underscores the global significance of his work. Mental health challenges among Veterans represent a cross-cultural concern, with military personnel worldwide experiencing similar struggles upon returning to civilian life.
Those interested in learning more about Dr. Forkner’s groundbreaking research or his advocacy work can find additional information through his professional psychology practice, which offers resources for Veterans and healthcare providers alike. The upcoming nationwide study on moral injury and PTSD represents an important opportunity to advance understanding of these critical issues affecting the Veteran community.