Mental Health

People with intellectual disability experience mental illness also known as dual diagnosis. There are limited to no specialist services for them. The majority live at home, with family or in the community with limited funding and supports.

Adults with intellectual disability have an increased risk of developing mental illness compared to the general population. Greater risk factors for developing a mental health diagnosis include low SES, limited social networks, poorer health outcomes, trauma and/or abuse, significant life events, limited or no choice and control, limited or no expressive communication, stigmitisation and marginalization.

Challenging behaviours are the most common reason for referral although behaviours are not classified as a mental health problem or illness. There are difficulties with diagnosis because of the person's inability to self-report, the limited knowledge and skill from mental health services and overshadowing.

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