Depression in Young People with Intellectual Disability

Myths: “Young people with intellectual disability don’t get depressed.” “Challenging behaviour is a better way to see their problems?” “If they can’t tell you they can’t be depressed” These are some of the assumptions that prevent the recognition of depression in people with intellectual disability (ID). These views were not just those of the uninformed, but 30-40 years ago were even propounded by medical authorities. These views represent a simplification of a complex and under-researched area with major problems of reliable professional and carer perception and judgement. Depression is of sufficient importance in those without ID that the World Health Organisation reports that in economic terms it is the second most costly health condition in the western world, with a lifetim