The 'hidden' injuries in military personnel and the potential implications for speech therapy

Abstract

The prevalence of mild traumatic brain injury military personnel is receiving national attention. This study focused on a review of the literature from government and military hospital sources relative to the identification and classification of brain injuries as well as treatment options available. The researcher also investigated the prevalence and symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in co-occurrence with mild traumatic brain injury. The role of speech-language pathologists in these treatment options was also explored in the literature in terms of assessment and intervention. Finally, personal interviews were conducted with six current active duty enlisted personnel with regard to their own experiences during active duty or deployment and their understanding of the traumatic brain injury on their personal and professional lives.