A new study reveals that three out of four police officers have experienced at least one concussion, which raises their chances of developing mental health problems.
In Ohio, about 74% of law enforcement officers have suffered one or more head injuries throughout their lives, researchers discovered. Around 30% of these injuries occurred while on duty.
However, less than one in four head injuries were diagnosed or treated by a doctor, the study found.
“This is an area where awareness must be improved, similar to the advancements made in sports concussion awareness,” said lead researcher Jaclyn Caccese, an assistant professor at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
Researchers surveyed 381 police officers in central Ohio about their head injury history. Participants also filled out questionnaires assessing symptoms of PTSD and depression.
Head injuries had occurred in 282 officers. These injuries were mostly from sports, but also happened due to falls, being hit, car accidents, or exposure to explosions. More than 50% of the participants reported having a head injury severe enough to cause loss of consciousness, confusion, or memory gaps—all signs of a concussion.
Officers with previous head injuries were more likely to exhibit symptoms of PTSD and depression.
The study was published on Aug. 5 in the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. Caccese hopes the findings will encourage more officers to report on-the-job concussions.
“The goal is to improve officer safety and health in the long term,” Caccese said in a university news release. “There is a lot of potential for enhancing career longevity.”
“Although treating these injuries immediately is challenging, it leads to longer careers, better health outcomes, and improved quality of life during service and retirement,” Caccese added. “With increased awareness, officers may be more likely to report injuries as they occur.”
It could be beneficial if law enforcement agencies developed “return-to-duty” rules similar to sports organizations’ “return-to-play” protocols for concussions. Such protocols would involve temporary removal from duty, a gradual increase in activity, and a doctor’s screening before returning to active duty, the researchers said.
“Now we have data to present to administrations, unions, and leadership,” said study co-author Josh Walters, a deputy in the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio. “We can show them the problem and how to fix it, and start working on the solution.”
Concussions Explained
A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head. Causes include falls, car accidents, sports injuries, and explosions. Symptoms can include headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and memory loss. Treatment often involves rest and avoiding activities that could cause another injury. Medications may help manage symptoms. Alternative treatments, such as physical therapy and cognitive exercises, can also aid recovery.
Key Insights:
- 74% of Ohio police officers have experienced a concussion.
- Less than 25% of these injuries were medically diagnosed or treated.
- Concussions increase the risk of PTSD and depression.
- Return-to-duty protocols could improve officer safety and health.
Source: Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation