Up to 40% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) experience co-occurring mental illness, with some estimates pointing to even higher prevalence rates. Despite its large presence in the community, little is known about how to support families, caregivers, and direct service providers in meeting the needs of individuals experiencing mental illness and I/DD.

To further explore the challenges people with I/DD and mental illness and their families are facing and what support is needed, The Arc’s Center for Future Planning convened five focus groups in Colorado, Wisconsin, and Oregon. The Arc also worked with Boston University to put together a national panel of young adults with co-occurring issues and professionals in the field to explore challenges that young adults with co-occurring issues face when accessing health care services.

Read the brief to learn about the important findings and recommendations, including the need for more training for professionals, systems change activities, new research, and greater public awareness around I/DD and mental health issues.