A survey on mental health care for adults with intellectual disabilities in Asia

Abstract

Background: Mental Health Services for adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in Asia is less described than those in the western world. With the improvements in the economy and medical care in Asia, there is an increase in awareness of mental health services for people with ID in this part of the world. A study was carried out to look into these aspects in Asian countries.

Method: A cross sectional survey using structured questionnaire was sent to 14 Asian countries/territories in 2005/2006 and returns were analysed in light of their demographics and health statistics.

Results: The type and range of mental health services vary widely for people with ID in all the nine countries/territories that returned their questionnaires. Two of the respondent countries reported a lack of psychiatric services for their adult ID population.

Conclusions: In general, mental health services for people with ID in Asia do not keep pace with economic developments. More government commitment and international collaborations are necessary to improve the mental well-being of this population in Asia.