Mental health is for everyone.

That statement might seem clear, but the mental health needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are very often overlooked or perceived as behavioral issues, rather than those that are amenable to mental health treatment, said Tammy Besser, Clinical Supervisor for JCFS Chicago’s Services for People with Disabilities.

“Often people think that counseling and psychotherapy isn’t for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism,” Tammy said.

But the rates of depression and anxiety are higher for people with I/DD than they are for the rest of population. According to the CDC, adults with disabilities report mental distress 4.6 times as often as those without disabilities.

“What might be symptoms of depression or anxiety or something else is often attributed to the autism or intellectual disability instead of a mental illness,” said Tammy, explaining diagnostic overshadowing. “The mental illness diagnosis is overshadowed by the person’s disability.”

Despite what research shows, misconceptions about the mental health of people with I/DD persist, and they often prevent individuals from receiving appropriate care.

Myth: People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities do not benefit from counseling and psychotherapy.

Fact: Numerous studies over the past 40 years have shown a variety of adapted standard therapies are effective for people with I/DD.

Myth: Emotional or behavioral changes are part of a person’s disability.

Fact: Emotional or behavioral changes often indicate an underlying medical or mental health condition that needs treatment.

Myth: Medication is the only treatment for people with I/DD.

Fact: Counseling, psychotherapy and behavior supports are effective treatments for mental illness for people with I/DD.

Tammy and her team added one more myth to the list and then dispelled it with facts:

Myth: Therapy for adults with I/DD is only for those who can engage in talk therapy.

Fact: Counseling and psychotherapy for adults with I/DD uses talk, expressive arts, and games. At JCFS, clinicians practice relaxation, mindfulness and stress/anxiety reducing skills. They use multiple modes of communication and counseling is adapted to the needs and preferences of the individual.

For more information about mental health services offered at JCFS Chicago, go to JCFS Chicago - Psychological & Counseling Services. Call 855.275.5237 or email Ask@JCFS.org to make an appointment.