– Negative life events People with a learning disability may be more likely to experience deprivation, poverty, abuse, and other negative life events earlier on in life. – Fewer resources Lack of social support and reduced coping skills can increase the stress and burden felt by young people with a learning disability. A learning disability is also likely to reduce their ability to socialise or find creative solutions to life’s challenges. – Other people’s attitudes Young people with a learning disability can experience stigma and discrimination in their daily lives, which can become internalised (178). Signs of poor mental health It is sometimes difficult to detect signs of poor mental health if a young person finds it hard to communicate. Sometimes, they will struggle to get a diagnosis for a mental health condition. This is because doctors may think mental health symptoms are part of the learning disability. When providing MHFA support, it is important not to make assumptions about the cognitive ability of the person. People with a learning disability experience poor mental health just like everyone else, however the signs and symptoms may present differently. They may describe their emotional signs using physical descriptions, e.g. their heart hurts or they are sad in their stomach. Family members and/or carers are often best placed to notice signs of poor mental health by knowing what is ‘usual’ for the young person and noticing what has changed. If you do not know the young person well and are not sure if the signs you have noticed are unusual for them, consult those who provide support for them (e.g. colleagues, carers, or family members), with appropriate consent from the young person, a parent, or a legal guardian.
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