Turning Point is delighted to welcome Olivia Wang, who has joined the Clinical and Social Research (CSR) team as a PhD candidate under the supervision of A/Prof Shalini Arunogiri, Dr Sarah Catchlove, and Dr Ari Roxburgh.

Ms Wang’s doctoral research is focused on: “Heart Rate Variability and Co-occurring Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Use Disorders”.

Since PTSD and substance dependence frequently co-occur and contribute to poorer treatment outcomes, her project could transform treatment and improve outcomes for people experiencing these conditions.

“HRV is an indication of autonomic nervous system functioning and emotional regulation, so it may help explain the physiological mechanisms linking trauma and substance use,” Ms Wang explains.

As part of her research, she will also explore whether HRV-based interventions could provide potential treatment for people experiencing co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorders.

Improving outcomes for people with co-occurring PTSD and addiction

Olivia describes her research interests as broad but consistently grounded in a desire to improve outcomes for people affected by trauma and addiction.

Before commencing her PhD, Olivia explored a range of research areas across addiction and mental health. She contributed to a cohort study on adolescent substance use, completed a systematic review on PTSD, and volunteered with several mental health non-profit organisations.

She chose Monash University and Turning Point because they are leading institutions in addiction research.

“Your work on substance use and comorbidity closely aligns with my research interests, and I was particularly interested in the opportunity to work in a research environment that combines academic research with clinical impact,” she says.

The opportunities to access statistical consultation, library support for literature searches, and training workshops on research methods and academic writing also motivated her decision.

“My supervisors are also very supportive and provide regular feedback, which helps me improve my research and stay on track with my PhD.”

Turning Point is delighted to welcome Olivia to the team. We look forward to supporting her research journey.

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