SLU Researcher Awarded Grant to Research Corrections Workplace Mental Health
Lisa Jaegers, Ph.D., professor of occupational science and occupational therapy at Saint Louis University and her research team were awarded $89,900 from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health over three years.
The study, "Translating research to practice in corrections staff mental health through dissemination of evidence: from pilots to practical programs," aims to address the significant health challenges associated with violence, trauma and stress that disproportionately impact a vital public safety work sector: prison and jail staff.
“With this award, we will implement an annual series of collaborative research-to-practice (r2p) symposia designed to disseminate evidence-informed practices and methods for effective implementation in correctional settings,” Jaegers said.
“These events will convene a national community of corrections health professionals, organizations, unions, and researchers, including officers, healthcare providers, social workers, case managers, chaplains, and educators. Each participatory symposium will build on existing knowledge and best practices, enhancing the effectiveness of resources to promote health and advance interventions within correctional workplaces,” Jaegers said.
Jaegers is the principal investigator on this research, with assistance from SLU colleagues Jen Bello Kottenstette, M.D., (family and community medicine) and Michael Vaughn, Ph.D. (social work and criminal justice). They are also joined by Mazen El Ghaziri, Ph.D., (University of Massachusetts Lowell) and Martin Cherniack, M.D., (University of Connecticut and the ).
The research team has worked on a variety of projects together including SLU Health Criminology Research Consortium Symposia and and . Jaegers, El Ghaziri, and Cherniack have worked together for 10 years on a variety of projects including two funded by the .
“I'm excited about the scope and reach of this project as it furthers the project team's established work as a leading source of corrections workplace health research and resources,” said Jaegers.
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Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1818, the University fosters the intellectual and character development of more than 13,000 students on two campuses in St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Building on a legacy of more than 200 years, Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.