With the recent pandemic, many of us have experienced some impact on our mental health.   We have faced loss, uncertainty and disruption of our normal routine. To make matters worse, we have not had access to our usual support systems and loved ones.  This has been a challenge and although the vaccine and decrease in COVID cases is a welcome relief, the mental health effects are still lingering. 

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not immune to these same mental health impacts.  They experience the same range of mental health symptoms that the rest of the general population does. However, the resources for people with these dual needs are often scarce and difficult to access.

We recently came across a resource that we want to share with you.  The Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities National Training Center is an organization that works to improve mental health services and support for people with developmental disabilities by providing access to training and other resources. They have free easy-to-read online learning modules for people with IDD, their families and caregivers as well as evidence-based, trauma-informed, modules and resources for mental health clinicians. 

On their website, you can also access blogs, podcasts and storytelling videos of people with IDD sharing their experiences with mental health conditions. Check out their website here:  https://www.mhddcenter.org/learn-now/

Melinda Frederick, MS, LCMHC, NCC

Sr. Director of Quality Management

Community Based Care