Mental health and behavioural problems in children and adolescents with learning disabilities

Epidemiological studies confirm that children and adolescents with learning disabilities are at risk of developing a range of mental health or behavioural problems. The presentation of these problems is complicated by a variety of factors including the child's level of cognitive functioning, diagnostic overshadowing, and psychiatric comorbidities. Expert multidisciplinary assessment is required in order to understand the underlying aetiology of the child's problems and the nature of any psychopathological processes. Appropriate interventions can then be planned and implemented. Child and adolescent mental health services and commissioners need to ensure that a comprehensive package of services is developed for this group of children as any unassessed and untreated problems are likely to have a significant impact on the quality of the child's life and the lives of family members and carers.