A new study reveals that head injuries are alarmingly prevalent among police officers, with significant implications for their mental health. The research, published on August 5 in the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, highlights that approximately 74% of Ohio law enforcement officers have experienced at least one concussion in their lifetime, with about 30% of these injuries occurring on duty.

Lead researcher Jaclyn Caccese, an assistant professor at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, emphasized the need for increased awareness and better protocols. Despite the high incidence of head injuries, fewer than 25% were diagnosed or treated by a doctor.

The study surveyed 381 officers in central Ohio, examining their head injury history and assessing symptoms of PTSD and depression. Findings revealed that over 50% of the officers had sustained head injuries severe enough to cause loss of consciousness, confusion, or memory gaps—key indicators of concussion.

Officers with a history of head injuries were more likely to exhibit symptoms of PTSD and depression, underscoring the link between head trauma and mental health issues. Caccese advocates for enhanced reporting of on-the-job concussions and the development of “return-to-duty” protocols, similar to those used in sports. These protocols would involve temporary removal from duty, gradual reintroduction to work, and medical evaluation before returning to active service.

Josh Walters, a deputy in the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and co-author of the study, sees potential for using these findings to push for systemic changes in law enforcement agencies. “Now we have some data that we can present to administrations, to unions, to leadership that says, ‘Here’s the problem. This is how we can fix it. Let’s start working that process,’” Walters said.

Caccese hopes that these measures will not only improve immediate care but also enhance career longevity and overall quality of life for officers.