Beyond the disability: recognizing mental health issues among persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Current societal changes mean increased possibilities for individuals with I/DD to participate in work, family, and community life. However, as individuals with I/DD have at least the same prevalence of mental health disorders as the general population and possibly an increased susceptibility to some mental health disorders, their ability to participate in work, housing, and social opportunities is hampered. It is important to improve nursing education about the specific issues of mental health care of individuals with I/DD. An important area for nursing research and education are improved clinical and practice guidelines. Research on medications and other therapies in mental health care of individuals with I/DD is limited and has methodological limitations. Nursing education and training are holistic, and nursing has the potential of positive impact on practice, education, and research that will improve the mental health care of individuals with I/DD.