Intellectual Disability

F70.0-9/ F71.0-9F72.-9/F73-9/F78.0-9/F79.0-9

  • Difficulty with verbal communication in the patient may result in over diagnosis of psychiatric conditions.
  • More time is needed in the consultation and adequate history from family members.
  • High risk of being victims of sexual and physical violence, by the family, neighbours or strangers.
  • Emotional distress, fear, anxiety or depression may present as aggression or odd behaviour.
  • A supportive, caring, secure environment is essential for well-being and contained behaviour.
  • Manage together with social workers, occupational therapists, counsellors and non-health departments e.g. social development and education.
  • Lowest doses of medication should be used; consider anxiety, depression and epilepsy before psychosis.
  • Placement in a residential facility may be necessary. Requires referral to a social worker and may require completion of a MHCA Form04 and two Form 05s depending on the mental health status of the user.