Incidence and predictors of mental ill-health in adults with intellectual disabilities: prospective study.
BACKGROUND
The point prevalence of mental ill-health among adults with intellectual disabilities is 40.9%, but its incidence is unknown.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the incidence and possible predictors of mental ill-health.


METHODS
Prospective cohort study to measure mental ill-health in adults with mild to profound intellectual disabilities.


RESULTS
Cohort retention was 70% (n=651). The 2-year incidence of mental ill-health was 16.3% (12.6% excluding problem behaviours, and 4.6% for problem behaviours) and the standardised incidence ratio was 1.87 (95% CI1.51-2.28). Factors related to incident mental ill-health have some similarities with those in the general population, but also important differences. Type of accommodation and support, previous mental ill-health, urinary incontinence, not having impaired mobility, more severe intellectual disabilities, adult abuse, parental divorce in childhood and preceding life events predicted incident ill-health; however, deprivation, other childhood abuse or adversity, daytime occupation, and marital and smoking status did not.


CONCLUSIONS
This is a first step towards intervention trials, and identifying subpopulations for more proactive measures. Public health strategy and policy that is appropriate for this population should be developed.
Smiley
Elita
E
Section of Psychological Medicine, Division of Community Based Sciences, University of Glasgow, Academic Centre, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, 1055 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0XH, UK.
Cooper
Sally-Ann
SA
Finlayson
Janet
J
Jackson
Alison
A
Allan
Linda
L
Mantry
Dipali
D
McGrother
Catherine
C
McConnachie
Alex
A
Morrison
Jillian
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales