Intellectual Disability in Rural Backgrounds: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

Intellectual disability (ID) or mental retardation is defined as a condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind, which is especially characterized by impairment of skills manifested during the developmental period, skills which contribute to the overall level of intelligence, i.e., cognitive, language, motor, and social abilities (International Classification of Diseases ICD 10, World Health Organisation 1992). This is characterized by significant reduced ability to understand new information and learn new skills, i.e., impaired intelligence (usually taken as an IQ below 70), a reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social functioning), and starting before adulthood with a lasting effect on development (DOH, 2001). There is recognition that the prevalence of mental health issues in people with ID is much more than the general population. Epidemiological data, available globally, on the intellectual disability population is very limited and at times not reliable. There is a wide variation in the availability of mental health services across the world and access to good mental health care in the rural areas of some countries could be difficult. Many of these countries have limited resources for health provision, and mental health services of people with ID are not always seen as priority. Hence, it would be essential to explore issues specific to people with ID when it comes to mental health services in rural areas and explore potential solutions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)