Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities 

Article / 11 September 2024
Young adult female wearing green top, sits on her bed staring at computer with her small dog sitting beside her. She looks sad.

Did you know that people with an intellectual disability are more likely to have a mental illness than people without? 

While R U OK? Day is a great reminder to check in on each other, it’s important to acknowledge that it can be harder to recognise mental health issues in a person with an intellectual disability. Many signs are often missed because we tend to rely on verbal cues and a person’s ability to express their feelings. 

By understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities, and knowing what signs to look for, we can all play a part in offering the right support and help when it’s needed. 

Why Are People with an Intellectual Disability More at Risk? 

Several factors can contribute, including:  

  • Communication Difficulties: Many people with an intellectual disability may have difficulty communicating their thoughts and feelings, making it harder for others to recognise when they are experiencing mental health issues. 
  • Lack of Control: Not having control over various aspects of their lives, such as daily routines, personal choices, or living arrangements, can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety. 
  • Fewer Job Opportunities: Limited access to meaningful employment can affect self-esteem and contribute to feelings of isolation and depression. 
  • Associated Conditions: Some conditions that cause intellectual disabilities also have mental health issues as a component, increasing the overall risk. 
  • Medical Reasons: Certain physical health conditions associated with intellectual disabilities can also contribute to or exacerbate mental health issues. 

While these factors increase the risk, it’s important to note that not every person with an intellectual disability will experience mental health difficulties. However, being aware of these risks can help you recognise early signs and take appropriate action. 

Identifying Signs and Symptoms 

Recognising mental health problems in people with an intellectual disability can be challenging, particularly for those with limited communication skills. While some may exhibit signs of depression similar to those without an intellectual disability, others may not be able to express their feelings verbally, making it harder to identify issues. 

Here are some key indicators to watch for: 

Changes in Behaviour: 

  • Loss of Interest: The person may no longer enjoy activities they once found pleasurable. 
  • Social Withdrawal: They may start withdrawing from friends and family and may try to spend more time alone.  
  • Sleep Changes: Noticeable changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping significantly more or less than usual. 
  • Appetite Changes: An increase or decrease in appetite that differs from their normal eating habits. 

Verbal and Nonverbal Cues:

  • Confusion or Discomfort: They might say things like, “I don’t feel right” or “I’m confused.” 
  • Emotional Expressions: Phrases like “I’m sad” or “I’m worried/scared” could indicate underlying issues. 
  • Restlessness: Expressions of not being able to sit still or feeling unsettled. 
How to recognise changes 

If you’re monitoring the mental health of a person with an intellectual disability, you should compare any noted changes to what is typical for that person. Everyone has their own unique patterns of behaviour, emotions, and routines, so recognising changes requires an understanding of what is “usual” for them. For example, if someone usually enjoys social interactions but begins to isolate themselves, this might indicate a concern.  

The best way to do this is to write down their usual behaviour, as keeping a record can help you when talking to a mental health professional and to others who support them. Some information that you may want to record is: 

  • Their usual activity level and regular activities  
  • Their usual sleeping habits 
  • What they eat and drink (how much, their particular requirements and preferences) 
  • Their routines and rituals 
  • Their normal range of emotions and how they are expressed in a variety of situations 
  • Their social activities and interactions 
  • Key info about their physical health 
  • Their communication style and abilities 
  • Their key relationships. 

If you note any changes to these behaviours you can include this in the record. You can then discuss this with the person, and then the appropriate health professionals when necessary.  

What to Do If You Notice Changes 

If you observe these changes in behaviour, it’s important to address these promptly, recording these changes can be helpful when discussing the situation with the individual, their GP, or other health professionals. Early recognition and intervention can make a significant difference in managing mental health issues. By staying attentive to the signs and symptoms, you can provide the necessary support to help individuals with intellectual disabilities live fulfilling and healthy lives. 

For more detailed information and resources, be sure to consult with healthcare professionals who specialise in intellectual disabilities and mental health. 

For further information and resources on this subject, please visit Intellectual Disability Mental Health Connect

Inspired to help us enable independence?