Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN)

The Guide

Accessible Mental Health Services for People with an Intellectual Disability: A Guide for Providers

Click here to download The Guide

The Guide is a national framework of understanding and action for frontline mental health service providers with respect to people with an intellectual disability. It provides an overview of intellectual disability mental health, why accessible services are important, the principles that should guide service delivery, practical strategies for inclusive and accessible services, and the implications for the service system. The Guide was developed in consultation with key national stakeholders, and was funded by the Australian Government Department of Health.

The Guide will assist health services in providing equitable access, a skilled workforce and appropriate treatment to people with an intellectual disability and a mental disorder.

The intended audience for The Guide includes all mental health professionals and organisations which treat people with an intellectual disability and co-occurring mental disorders including those who work within:

  • Primary Health Care Settings;
  • Public Mental Health Services;
  • Private Mental Health Services; and

  • Specialised Intellectual Disability Mental Health Professionals and Services.

Other professionals and service settings are also integral to the broad support system for the mental health and wellbeing of people with an intellectual disability including disability, education, general health and other human service organisations. These service providers as well as family and carers may also find The Guide beneficial.
 
Hard copies of The Guide are available for purchase for $15 (incl GST) per copy, which covers the cost of printing. To order and purchase hard copies of The Guide, contact Rachel Roth rachel.roth@unsw.edu.au.
 

For further information, contact 3DN directly via dddn@unsw.edu.au or phone (02) 9931 9160.

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