About 1 percent of people have intellectual disabilities, and among them, 85% are only mildly affected. These disabilities are typically identified in babies and children under 18 and are marked by below-average intelligence and skill levels. But how can you tell if someone has an intellectual disability?
**Diagnosing Intellectual Disability**
The method of diagnosis depends on the child’s age. For babies, tests like blood and urine analyses can confirm intellectual disabilities. When children are suspected of having such a disability, they are assessed by professionals. Often, a psychologist will administer an IQ test, which measures a child’s ability to function and live independently. To diagnose an intellectual disability, professionals look for a low IQ score (below 75) and difficulties in adapting behaviors when compared to the child’s peers.
**Signs of Intellectual Disability**
Children show various symptoms at different times, but the following signs should be discussed with a healthcare provider:
– Delay in speech.
– Slow development in activities like rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and walking.
– Trouble adapting to new situations.
– Poor memory.
– Behavioral issues.
– Challenges with problem-solving.
– Lack of curiosity.
– Difficulties in transitioning through developmental stages like potty training or self-feeding and dressing.
– Struggling to keep up with social, language, and motor skills compared to classmates.
– In severe cases, issues like hearing or vision problems, seizures, or other mental disorders.
**Treatment for Intellectual Disability**
According to The ARC, while there’s no cure for intellectual disabilities, much can be done to help. Early intervention programs and resources are crucial. Infants and toddlers benefit from a team of professionals, including therapists, nutritionists, educators, psychologists, neurologists, and family counselors, who create a comprehensive Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). These programs teach parents how to stimulate their child’s growth and development.
School-age children can access free special education services through public schools, as part of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Parents can collaborate with counselors and educators to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their child’s needs, helping them succeed in school and develop social skills.
**The Role of Counselors**
Children with intellectual disabilities might feel isolated and face teasing or bullying. Clinical counseling can be a supportive solution, helping them feel understood, manage stress, address behavioral issues, and develop social skills.
Parents may feel overwhelmed when learning about their child’s disability, but many support resources are available. Group therapy and support groups offer a way to connect with other families experiencing similar challenges. Family counseling helps the whole family address and express feelings and concerns, which can be overlooked.
Some people think children with intellectual disabilities have limited futures, but many can have careers, live independently, and support themselves. With the right support, understanding, and patience, their lives can significantly improve. When counselors, educators, healthcare providers, and parents collaborate, there is hope for children with intellectual disabilities to grow into happy and even independent adults.