My name is Kristen Woods, and I am a former research and graduate student at Rutgers University. My interests are in psychology and neuroscience: I have a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Masters of Science in Computational and Integrative Biology (CIB). The CIB program focused on integrating disciplines, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and psychology, to better understand complex systems, such as the brain. My research investigated neuroplasticity, specifically, and I was excited to contribute to the existing research on the rewiring of the brain in response to learning and development. 

Human neurobiology research often takes advantage of our new brain imaging techniques, including, but not limited to, CT scans, EEGs, PET scans, MRIs, fMRIs, and SPECT imaging, respectively. I was shocked to realize that while neuroscience approaches are combined in understanding the brain from a research perspective, the use of brain imaging methods are not commonly utilized in clinical practice. I learned this the hard way.

At my MS graduation, I experienced my first episode of psychosis, which was later diagnosed as Bipolar Type I disorder. I was assessed and diagnosed with a variety of overlapping conditions, but ultimately, Bipolar Type I disorder made the most sense. It is worth noting that I did not exhibit all of the symptoms of the conditions diagnosed at any point, which led to many disagreements among different psychiatrists (illustrating how imperfect our diagnosis process truly is).  Over the last five years, I’ve struggled to find the right medication for stabilization. In the state of NJ, psychiatric disorders are diagnosed and treated in a black box: Symptoms are assessed by a Crisis team, and diagnoses are based on those outward observations. 

What’s worse is that medication is a trial-and-error process, and since medication is developed using animal models (such as rats), many people experience a wide range of side effects, such as weight gain, brain fog, fatigue, trouble focusing, and even suicidal ideation. This is a frustrating process, given that brain imaging tools can significantly aid in the treatment of psychological disorders, and if researchers and clinicians were to work together, mental health would progress at a much faster rate, with less suffering for the patients involved.

The purpose of the site is to advocate for necessary change in the mental health system with hopes of patients receiving exceptional care for their brains and minds. I'm grateful to have recovered from my mental health challenges, but my journey came with a lot of unnecessary suffering. If I could use my training and experience to enhance the care of mental health hospitals, my past struggles would truly be worth all that I have learned and all that I've been through.