Abstract

Author:
Onum Friday Okoh, Israel Grace, Agama Omachi, Ijagwu Joy

Doi: 10.26480/mmhj.01.2025.49.59

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a critical public health concern among military veterans, with far-reaching neurological and mental health implications. In Nigeria, the challenges faced by veterans with TBI are compounded by inadequate rehabilitation infrastructure, limited access to specialized care, and social stigma surrounding mental health. This paper explores the intersection of neurological deficits and mental health disorders resulting from TBI, emphasizing the impact on communication abilities such as speech, comprehension, and social interaction. The study highlights how untreated or poorly managed TBI can result in long-term cognitive and emotional impairments, including aphasia, memory loss, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), all of which hinder effective communication. From a neurological and mental health perspective, the paper underscores the importance of early diagnosis, public awareness, and integrated support systems tailored to veterans’ needs. It further argues that improving communication outcomes requires a multi-sectoral approach involving clinical intervention, community reintegration programs, and policy advocacy. By addressing the neurological and psychological barriers to effective communication, Nigeria can foster more inclusive health services and enhance the quality of life for its veterans. This work provides vital insights for clinicians, policymakers, and mental health professionals aiming to support TBI recovery and social reintegration in military populations.