Supporting Healthy Interpersonal Relationships for Individuals with I/DDs

Anytime during the developmental stage, developmental problems can start, and they typically last for the rest of a person’s life. The majority of developmental problems start before birth, but some can occur afterward due to trauma, infection, or other circumstances. In addition, many different causes are known to contribute to the majority of developmental disorders. Among these factors are genetics, parental health and behaviors during pregnancy, and birth complications. Infections the mother might have during pregnancy or the baby might have very early in life may also pose a risk for disabilities.

Types of I/DDs

In addition, there are a variety of disabilities that fall under the category of I/DDs. ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Fragile X syndrome are discussed in great detail within the course. If you have a patient with an intellectual or developmental disability, it may be extremely helpful to gain knowledge on how to care for these patients. These patients also may struggle with learning to live on their own. For the same reasons that everyone else does – to stay well, active, and be a part of the community – people with disabilities require access to healthcare and health services. A disability doesn’t mean that a person is unhealthy or that they cannot be healthy. Being healthy involves getting and staying well so we may enjoy full, active lives. That entails having the knowledge and resources necessary to choose healthfully and avoid getting sick. It also means that health issues connected to a disability can be handled by people with disabilities. These issues, which are often referred to as secondary conditions, might include discomfort, depression, and an increased risk for specific illnesses.