FACTS

• Intellectual Disability is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically manifests during childhood and is characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

• It affects individuals across all cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

• Intellectual Disability is diagnosed based on standardized assessments of intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

• The severity of Intellectual Disability can vary significantly, ranging from mild to profound.

• People with Intellectual Disability can lead fulfilling lives and make progress with appropriate support, intervention, and accommodations.

CAUSES

• Below-average intellectual functioning: Individuals with Intellectual Disability typically have an IQ below 70-75, which impacts their ability to learn and understand information.

• Delays in developmental milestones: Children with Intellectual Disability may exhibit delays in speech and language development, motor skills, and self-care skills.

• Challenges in adaptive behavior: Difficulties with everyday tasks such as communication, social skills, self-care, and problem-solving are common in individuals with Intellectual Disability.

• Memory and learning difficulties: Individuals with Intellectual Disability may struggle with memory recall, understanding complex concepts, and acquiring new skills.

• Social and emotional challenges: People with Intellectual Disability may face difficulties in social interactions, understanding social cues, and regulating their emotions.

SYMPTOMS

• Emotional distress: Victims may experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, fear, or depression as a result of the bullying they endure.

• Physical complaints: Bullying can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, changes in appetite, or sleep disturbances.

• Social withdrawal: Victims may isolate themselves, avoid social situations, or have difficulty making friends due to the fear of further bullying.

• Decreased self-esteem: Repeated bullying can erode a person's self-confidence and self-worth, leading to a negative self-perception.

• Academic or job-related problems: Bullying can impact a victim's performance, leading to difficulties concentrating, decreased productivity, or declining grades.

THERAPY USED

• Early intervention programs: Early identification and intervention are crucial for children with Intellectual Disability. Early intervention programs provide tailored support, therapies, and educational strategies to promote development and adaptive skills.

• Special education programs: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and specialized educational settings help individuals with Intellectual Disability access appropriate learning opportunities and accommodations.

• Speech and language therapy: This therapy helps individuals with Intellectual Disability improve their communication skills, including speech production, comprehension, and social communication.

• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists work with individuals to develop self-care, motor, and sensory processing skills, enabling them to participate in daily activities more independently.

• Behavioral therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is often used to teach adaptive behaviors, social skills, and reduce challenging behaviors in individuals with Intellectual Disability. It focuses on positive reinforcement and behavior modification techniques.

• Intellectual functioning below average, typically indicated by an IQ score of 70 or below.

• Delays in reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting up, crawling, walking, and talking.

• Difficulties with problem-solving, logical reasoning, and abstract thinking.

• Challenges in understanding and following instructions.

• Limited memory and learning difficulties, particularly in acquiring and retaining new information.

• Slow language development, including difficulty in expressing thoughts and understanding others.

• Poor social skills and difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships.

• Impaired adaptive behavior, including struggles with self-care tasks, time management, and following rules.

• Difficulty with abstract concepts and complex tasks.

• Lack of independence in daily living skills, such as dressing, eating, and personal hygiene.

Supporting someone with Intellectual Disability requires understanding, empathy, and a person-centered approach. Here are some ways you can provide support:

• Educate yourself: Learn about Intellectual Disability, its causes, and how it affects individuals. Understanding their specific needs will help you provide appropriate support.

• Foster inclusivity: Encourage inclusion and create an accepting and supportive environment. Treat individuals with respect, dignity, and equal opportunities for participation.

• Effective communication: Use clear, simple language and give individuals time to process information. Use visual aids, gestures, and other forms of communication if needed. Be patient and listen actively.

• Offer assistance: Provide assistance and guidance when necessary, but encourage independence and allow them to do tasks to the best of their abilities. Break tasks into smaller steps and provide clear instructions.

• Promote social interactions: Encourage socialization by facilitating opportunities for individuals with Intellectual Disability to engage with others. Foster inclusive friendships and support their social skills development.

• Individualized support: Recognize that each person is unique. Tailor support to their specific needs, abilities, and interests. Collaborate with professionals, such as educators, therapists, and caregivers, to create personalized plans.

• Promote independence: Encourage and support individuals to develop and enhance their independent living skills, such as self-care, household tasks, and money management. Provide opportunities for them to make choices and decisions.

• Advocate for their rights: Stand up for the rights of individuals with Intellectual Disability. Support their access to education, employment, healthcare, and community services. Raise awareness and challenge stigma and discrimination.

• Involve families and caregivers: Collaborate and communicate with families and caregivers to understand the individual's background, preferences, and support needs. Work together to create a consistent and supportive environment.

• Seek professional guidance: Consult with professionals, such as educators, therapists, and support service providers, who can provide specialized expertise and guidance in supporting individuals with Intellectual Disability.