Research indicates a high rate of head injuries and related mental health challenges among law enforcement officers, highlighting the necessity for improved concussion protocols and awareness to bolster officer wellness and operational readiness. A recent study reveals a startling prevalence of head injuries among law enforcement officers in Ohio, with 74% reporting such injuries and a significant association with mental health issues like PTSD and depression. The research underscores a critical need for better awareness and protocols akin to those in sports and military settings to enhance officer health, improve job performance, and ensure safety.
Head Injury Prevalence in Law Enforcement A recent study reveals the widespread occurrence of head injuries and associated mental health symptoms among a group often neglected in concussion surveillance: law enforcement officers. The survey of Ohio law enforcement officers found that 74% reported a lifetime history of one or more head injuries, and 30% had a head injury that happened on the job. Many more of these injuries went unreported than were treated by a healthcare professional.
Additionally, further analysis showed post-traumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms were higher in those who had experienced one or more head injuries. Mental Health Implications “This is an area where we have to improve awareness, just like we did in the sport concussion world,” said lead author Jaclyn Caccese, PhD, assistant professor.