Mental Health

About 30-40% of people with IDD meet criteria for a psychiatric disorder or have severe challenging behaviors such as self-injury or aggression.

They are often treated with psychiatric medications at high rates and with off-label indications. Matson and Neal, 2009, Psychotropic medication use for challenging behaviors in persons with intellectual disabilities: an overview. Research in Developmental Disabilities 30, 572-86.

According to a 2012 study of 983 adults with IDD, they experience high rates of chronic health conditions. (Hsieh K, Rimmer J, Heller T. Prevalence of falls and risk factors in adults with intellectual disability. American Journal of Intellectual Development Disability)

Members of the MHHI have made presentations to individuals with disabilities, family members, providers, and policy makers. A selected sample of recent presentations can be found here.

The MHHI recognizes the importance of the role of families and value of lived experience in supporting whole person care for people with IDD and has advocated for the service. In September 2022, the MHHI submitted comments regarding the Family Navigation in lieu of Service Definition to DHB FN TP Comment Final 9-9-22.pdf. Members of the MHHI were involved on a subcommittee of The Consortium to write the following Family Navigation-Peer Support Approved March 2022.pdf.