Mental Health in People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Mental health (MH) disorders are common in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). However, these conditions are not necessarily adequately addressed in clinical practice. The current chapter discusses challenges in MH assessment and treatment among autistic people and people with intellectual disability (ID), including the applicability of general-purpose instruments, and evidence-based principles in MH assessment. Moreover, we discuss the adaptation of interventions from general MH care to the specific individual’s strengths and difficulties and how contextual factors are likely to influence MH in people with IDDs. In sum, the assessment and treatment of MH disorders constitute an essential component of the care of autistic people and people with ID.