title: The mental health needs of people with severe learning disabilities.
abstract: People with severe learning disabilities can present with complex behavioural and emotional needs that are best understood within a biopsychosocial framework. This article outlines the range of issues involved in the presentation and identification of mental health needs in people with severe learning disabilities. The use of a multidisciplinary and multimodal approach to assessment, care planning and case management is promoted in order to provide effective, comprehensive care in meeting the mental health needs of this client group. The key knowledge and skills required to meet the mental health needs of this client group are outlined and the role of the nurse as a key professional in the coordination of the assessment and care management process is explored.
authors.affiliation: Mental Health Studies (Learning Disabilities), Institute of Psychiatry, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, UK.
authors.forename: Steve
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Higgins
mesh_terms: D019090:Case Management / Q000458:organization & administration; D002983:Clinical Competence; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000150:complications*; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000150:complications*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D008960:Models, Psychological; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009720:Nurse Clinicians / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D012307:Risk Factors