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Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people behave, communicate, and interact with other people.

It is usually diagnosed in early childhood, but people with autism have been diagnosed in all phases of life. People with autism may have a harder time with things like reading social cues and making friends, and they may have challenges such as repetitive behaviors.¹ Autism is a spectrum, which means that each person has unique abilities and needs. People with autism have different levels of disability and need different levels and types of support.²

Signs of autism may include sensory sensitivities, challenges with social and communication skills, delayed language or cognitive skills, or hyperactivity.³ There isn’t a cure for autism, but early intervention and support services can help individuals thrive and achieve their goals, from going to school to making friends to finding work they enjoy.

Sources:

1. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd
2. https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism
3. https://www.cdc.gov/autism/signs-symptoms/index.html

Intellectual and developmental disabilities include a wide range of conditions. They are usually present at birth and affect a person’s development in many areas of life.

Intellectual disabilities may impact learning, behavior, and social and independent living skills.¹ Developmental disabilities can include both intellectual and physical disabilities.² IDDs can affect many systems of the body and may include:³

• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome
• Fragile X syndrome
• Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs)
• Prader–Willi syndrome
• Fetal alcohol syndrome
• Sensory Processing Disorder
• Language disorders
• Degenerative disorders

Resources:

1. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/idds/conditioninfo
2.  https://www.aaidd.org/intellectual-disability/definition
3. https://www.cdc.gov/child-development/about/developmental-disability-basics.html

Just like people without disabilities, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can also have mental health challenges. In fact, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at a higher risk than people without disabilities for challenges like anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.¹

Because people with disabilities may have complex needs, their mental health challenges may be overlooked or misdiagnosed. It may be harder for family members or healthcare providers to understand what the individual is dealing with due to cognitive or communication challenges. People with disabilities may also have a harder time accessing mental health care due to physical, technological, transportation, and many other barriers.²

Lack of mental health care can cause behavioral challenges, like aggression or self-harm, to develop or get worse over time.³ Specialized therapies can make all the difference. Supports tailored to the unique needs of a person with a dual diagnosis can help them live a rich, full life in their community.

1. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/features/mental-health-for-all.html
2. https://www.nami.org/your-journey/identity-and-cultural-dimensions/people-with-disabilities/
3. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/features/adults-with-disabilities-mental-distress.html