Intellectual disability across cultures

Abstract

Here, we provide an overview of the cultural aspects of epidemiological findings and provision of mental health care to people with intellectual disability (ID). The prevalence of intellectual disability may vary between cultural and ethnic groups, but this depends to a large extent on the definition and assessment methods used. Although human-rights-based policies have led to de-institutionalization and community care, stigmatization and discrimination of individuals with ID and health inequalities are common across cultures, which may be associated with the high rates of mental illness in this population. Negative attitudes of mental-health professionals towards those with ID or minority groups may lead to double discrimination and diagnostic overshadowing, and communication issues and complex caregiver networks further complicates the recognition and management of mental illness in individuals with ID. There are several ways in which clinicians could improve practice, including awareness of culturally associated explanatory models, providing person-centred care while also building a working relationship with caregivers, and addressing communication barriers, which may improve the care of individuals with ID and reduce discrimination and health inequalities in all cultural groups.