Successful Strategies for Building a Shared Understanding Between Intellectual and Developmental Disorders Providers, Patients, and Families About Identifying and Treating Mental Health Concerns

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The objective is to evaluate the impact of a cross-Canada effort to help patients, family caregivers, and intellectual development disorder (IDD) health and social service providers to address mental health needs of people with IDD during COVID-19. Method(s) Various point-of-care tools and clinical resources explaining contributors to mental health difficulties, healthcare communication, and strategies to address mental health concerns were adapted to the 3 audiences of patients, families, and service providers and taught during virtual courses offered to these 3 audiences in the first year of the pandemic. Result(s) Learners reported feeling more comfortable with healthcare communication and understanding mental health difficulties and treatment following their participation in the virtual courses. A common understanding of issues can help to build capacity within the system. Conclusion(s) Everyone has a role to play when it comes to recognizing and addressing mental health concerns. This can be facilitated through the promotion of tailored toolkits and resources, and through the co-delivery of material by people with disabilities, families, and mental health service providers. ADV, ASD, ID Copyright © 2022