Dr. Sheftall's research focuses on the developmental mechanisms in early to middle childhood that confer vulnerability to future suicidal behavior. Additionally, Dr. Sheftall studies the racial disparities present in suicidal behavior among youth. It is her goal to frame targets for early intervention to decrease incidence of a first suicide attempt. She is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus Emergency Taskforce that developed the Ring the Alarm Report and continues to examine risk factors, practice, and policy recommendations necessary to decrease suicidal behaviors in Black youth. She is also a subject matter expert for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) focusing on mental health promotion and suicide prevention for Black individuals. Finally, Dr. Sheftall receives funding from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and AFSP.
