Position
As Occupational Therapists, we believe that we have unique responsibilities in dealing with military personnel:
Our position fully supports the Societal Statement on Combat-Related Post-Traumatic Stress by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Their statement can be viewed here.
While not directly addressed in AOTA's Societal Statement on Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress, OT's are also instrumental in the following areas:
Our position fully supports the Societal Statement on Combat-Related Post-Traumatic Stress by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Their statement can be viewed here.
- Recognize early symptoms of PTSD in those returning from combat in order to ensure prompt intervention and appropriate support.
- Provide strategies for coping with PTSD and re-engaging in meaningful activities such as daily routine, work, community engagement, leisure activities, and relationships.
While not directly addressed in AOTA's Societal Statement on Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress, OT's are also instrumental in the following areas:
- Assisting in the treatment of TBI for those returning from combat by educating about coping strategies, providing environmental modifications to assist with daily tasks, assisting with social support, and helping educate family members.
- Providing support for families and communities affected by this issue. As seen through Prospectives, the problems faced by those returning from combat radiate outwards into larger communities and to society as a whole. The successful support not only of the troops returning from combat but also for their families and communities is an essential element of this issue.
- Treating military personnel with burn injuries, amputations, orthopedic polytrauma, and specific upper extremity diagnoses such as lateral epicondylitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment can involve prosthesis training and splinting.
- Treating for other behavioral health related issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse. Treatment can involve suicide prevention, stress management techniques, and goal-setting.
- Education on ergonomics and proper body mechanics to prevent further injuries. This is mainly accomplished by OTs employed by the military.
- Advocating for those returning from combat to ensure that they receive the services and support to be successful in reintegrating into society. This includes making sure that current policies reflect the unique and changing issues for this population, as well as advocating that a portion of the funding for veterans be designated for occupational therapy. OTs should not only be involved in intervention, but advocate for services needed for client success. With appropriate funding and policy, OT will be able to improve the occupational performance of those returning from or engaged in combat. While this has an immediate affect on individuals, the overall impact will positively shape the community and society as a whole. For example, treating a client with PTSD, will not only allow the individual to reengage in meaningful occupations, but prevent further decline and mental health issues and allow the individual to have a higher quality of life. The more people are positively engaged in the community, the more productive they will be for society.