What are the signs of Intellectual Disability?

Typically, the earlier the signs of intellectual disability are identified, the more extreme the condition might be. However, predicting the long-term impact on young children can be challenging.

Children with intellectual disabilities might display a range of symptoms, including:

  • Delayed motor milestones, such as squatting, crawling, or walking later than peers
  • Delayed speech development or difficulty in verbal communication
  • Challenges with memory and retaining information
  • Difficulty understanding and following social norms
  • Limited awareness of the consequences of their actions
  • Struggles with problem-solving and logical reasoning
  • Early diagnosis and intervention can play an essential part in supporting the child's development and enhancing their quality of life.

ARE INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES COMMON?

Approximately 200 million individuals worldwide live with an intellectual disability, accounting for 1 to 3% of the global population. The prevalence of intellectual disability is remarkably higher in less developed countries, where an expected 16.41 cases for each 1,000 individuals are reported.

Overall, disability rates will more often than not be higher in underdeveloped regions. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP):

  • 80% of people with disabilities reside in low-income countries.
  • Although 1 in 10 individuals with disabilities experiences poverty, people with disabilities make up one-fifth of the poorest populations worldwide.

These statistics feature the urgent need for improved healthcare, education, and support systems for people with intellectual disabilities, especially in low-income regions.

SUPPORT AND INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES THERAPY

After an expert diagnoses and assesses a child with an intellectual disability, it is common to foster an Individualized Family Services Plan (IFSP). This plan frames the child’s specific necessities and the services required to help their development.

Intervention techniques are typically tailored to each individual. In some cases, minor changes in everyday routines or care arrangements can lead to recognizable improvements. For other people, specialized healthcare, counseling, or treatment might be important to upgrade their quality of life.

People with mild intellectual disabilities may especially benefit from talk treatment and online intellectual disability counseling, which can give guidance, emotional support, and coping techniques to assist them with navigating daily difficulties effectively.

Mental health issues and Intellectual disability therapy

Studies suggest that persons with intellectual disabilities are prone to experience psychiatric disorders such as depression and suicidal thoughts. Up to 40% of individuals with intellectual disabilities may also suffer from a psychiatric disorder. Other mental disorders often associated with intellectual disability include:

  • Anxiety
  • Psychotic illnesses
  • Autism (ASD)
  • Behavior problems

It can be quite difficult for mental health professionals to reveal accurate evaluation and diagnosis when present because for individuals who have cognitive limitations, they might find it hard to articulate their feelings and experiences. However, once such disorders are identified, online Intellectual Disability counseling and online Intellectual Disability therapy can do wonders.

HOW CAN I SUPPORT SOMEONE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY?

If parents or other adults are concerned that their child may have an intellectual Disability, they should speak with the doctor or therapist of the child as soon as possible. A person with this illness must receive early and continual assistance in order to realize their full potential.

A therapist who specializes in detecting developmental disorders should be consulted if the doctor has reason to believe that the kid has an intellectual disability or if they continue to suffer symptoms.

The following are additional pointers for parents and other caregivers:

  • Find out the specifics of the child's intellectual disability, such as their abilities, needs, and other unique characteristics.
  • Make friends with other parents whose kids have intellectual disabilities.
  • Encourage tasks like chores, dressing, eating, and bathing that lead to independence and responsibility.
  • Consult community, medical, or online therapist for intellectual disability for assistance
  • Be compassionate, hopeful, understanding, and patient.
  • Participate in social, leisure, sporting, or other activities.
  • Avoid thinking, saying, or projecting anything unpleasant.
  • Develop an individualized family services plan with early intervention programs that focused on the needs of the child and family.
  • Obtain special education and related services.
  • Practice social and communication skills.
  • Recognize that parents and other caregivers can aid in improving a person with an intellectual disability's functioning.
  • Use visual aids, such as a picture or hands-on materials, to demonstrate concepts as clearly as possible rather than giving verbal instructions.
  • Divide new and more difficult tasks into easier steps.
  • Assess the child's progress at school and at home in collaboration with teachers and academic support personnel.
  • Work with a child or adolescent psychiatrist to establish realistic expectations for the person.

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