First-generation CPH PhD student’s published research earns first place honors

As of July 2025, one in every four adults has undertaken the role of a family caregiver. Caregivers must often juggle the demands of jobs and parenting young children, while also looking after older adults. Existing studies have shown that simultaneous roles can increase stress and affect caregivers emotionally, resulting in negative mental and physical health outcomes. At the annual George Mason University Research Poster Competition, G. Thomas Wilson presented his novel research on an additional stressor faced by an underrepresented group of caregivers: adults who identify as sexual and gender minorities (SGM). He concluded that caregiving and SGM status were associated with greater depression and more days of reported poor mental health. 

Wilson’s poster presentation won first place, standing out amongst fellow graduate students across the university.  

“Negative societal response and perceptions, high potential for familial strain, justified medical mistrust, and stigma can contribute to additional adverse health outcomes, including increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, substance misuse and abuse, non-suicidal self-injury, and deaths by suicide or unintentional overdose,” said Wilson, a PhD in public health, social and behavioral science and first-generation student.  

First-generation student, first author in a research journal 

In addition to earning first place, Thomas’ research, titled Assessing sexual and gender identity interaction with the relationship between caregiving and adverse mental health outcomes, was published in the Journal of Mental Health. 

College of Public Health faculty Gilbert Gimm and Rodman Turpin were co-authors. Wilson notes his appreciation for the interdisciplinary opportunities and support he has received.  

“Within this PhD in public health program, the faculty are supportive and deeply invested in student success. The program's strong methodological training continues to prepare me to engage critically with complex issues pertaining to public health,” he said.  

Why pursue a PhD in public health at George Mason University? 

• Conduct impactful, real‑world research that gets recognized and published. George Mason PhD students lead original research on pressing public health issues, earning university-wide awards and publication in respected journals. 

• Learn from supportive, interdisciplinary faculty invested in your success. Students benefit from close mentorship and collaboration with faculty across disciplines, gaining strong methodological training and guidance that prepares them to tackle complex public health challenges. 

• Be prepared to advance health equity and address underserved populations. The PhD in Public Health program emphasizes social and behavioral science, experiential learning, and equity-focused research that equips graduates to improve mental and physical health outcomes for all communities. 

Learn more about the PhD in public health at George Mason University.