Mental ill-health in adults with learning disabilities

Abstract

A learning disability is a lifelong condition. Mental ill-health is common in people with learning disabilities, and several epidemiological studies have shown higher rates of psychiatric disorder in people with learning disabilities compared with the population as a whole. Biological, psychological, and social influences may account for this excess of mental ill-health. Presentation of symptoms differs across the range of learning disabilities. Nevertheless, there are several understudied areas, especially in the epidemiology (prevalence and incidence) of various types of mental disorder and the predictors of those disorders. Further investigation into the aetiology and course of mental ill-health may lead to better care and suitable interventions for this population.