Supporting the Mental Health for Underrepresented Populations

By: Destiny Proulx- Kier

Created: January 25, 2025

Published: February 3, 2025

Mental health among children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) or autism is often overlooked. This is partly due to the many other healthcare professionals these individuals already see, such as occupational and speech therapists. However, the problem goes deeper, as there are significant barriers to proper mental health care. In a study conducted in New York City, it was noted that “autistic children and adolescents experience high rates of co-occurring mental health conditions, including depression and suicidality, which are often identified as treatment priorities” (Cervantes et al., 2023). Similarly, a study on intellectual disabilities found that “cognitive deficits impair communication and negatively impact social functioning, self-esteem, and the ability to form and maintain friendships, which can lead to loneliness, mood disorders, anxiety, and emotional challenges” (Buckley et al, 2020). These studies are crucial for mental health professionals who strive to serve this population and ensure that no one is left without care. Addressing these concerns requires not only more education but also adaptability within treatment practices.

One significant barrier to care is the availability of providers who offer specialized treatment for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. According to research, “The first obstacle families confront is finding a provider that offers mental health treatment to autistic youth within the many service systems involved in supporting the autism community” (Cervantes et al., 2023). Another major issue is the education of professionals. Clinicians have reported low confidence and competence in treating autistic individuals and are often unprepared to assess mental health difficulties. This lack of preparation makes it difficult for them to adapt their treatment plans to better support these individuals in therapy. A study showed that less than 50% of clinics will accept youth within this population who have mental health concerns such as depression and suicidality. Surprisingly, autistic youth are nine times more likely to visit the emergency department for a psychiatric concern compared to typically developing youth (Cervantes et al., 2023). Additionally, the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms is alarmingly high, with 38% to 49% of children and adolescents with ID showing signs of mental health issues, compared to just 14% of their typically developing peers (Buckley et al, 2020). Finally, underscreening remains a major barrier. “Individuals with ID are at risk of underdiagnosis and underservicing for their mental health problems. This could arise from inadequate screening and detection (Kauffman et al., 2007) and/or greater barriers in accessing mental health services (Whittle et al., 2018)” (Buckley et al, 2020).

To improve life outcomes and overall well-being for those with ID and autism, we must work to break down these barriers and provide resources that are accessible to all.

Mental health professionals must be more adaptable and well-educated in treating this population. We need a system where these individuals are not only accepted into care but actively supported. By increasing education for clinicians, enhancing accessibility to services, and improving screening and detection of mental health concerns, we can ensure that children and adolescents with autism and intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to receive the care they deserve.

References:

Cervantes, P. E., Conlon, G. R., Seag, D. E., Feder, M., Lang, Q., Meril, S., Baroni, A., Li, A., Hoagwood, K. E., & Horwitz, S. M. (2023). Mental health service availability for autistic youth in New York City: An examination of the developmental disability and mental health service systems. Autism, 27(3), 704-713. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uta.edu/10.1177/13623613221112202

Buckley N, Glasson EJ, Chen W, et al. Prevalence estimates of mental health problems in children and adolescents with intellectual disability: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry. 2020;54(10):970-984. doi:10.1177/0004867420924101

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