Mental health problems in children with intellectual disability

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Child Psychiatry

Background:

• Intellectual disability is a leading cause of disease burden globally, particularly in young children.
• 2-3% of children have intellectual disability, with an additional 15% showing related developmental differences.
• Mental health problems are highly prevalent in children with intellectual disability, occurring at double the rate of their peers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence of mental health problems in children with intellectual disability.
• To discuss interventions and access to treatment and services from a global perspective.
• To explore strategies for addressing mental health inequities in intellectual disability.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on intellectual disability and mental health.
• It adopts a global perspective, considering low- and middle-income country contexts.
• The principle of proportionate universalism guides the discussion on interventions.

Main Results:

• Approximately 40% of children with intellectual disability have a diagnosable mental disorder.
• Risk factors and access barriers are often shared with the general population.
• Most children with intellectual disability reside in low- and middle-income countries.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant mental health inequity for children with intellectual disability.
• Addressing this inequity requires targeted strategies and improved access to care.
• A global approach is essential, considering the disproportionate impact in resource-limited settings.