Did you know that an estimated 35% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) also have a mental health condition? May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s an important time to remember that mental health systems and supports must be accessible for all people who need them, no matter what cognitive, physical, communication, or other disabilities they may have.

In addition, it’s an important time to remember that caregivers of children and adults with IDD need support now more than ever. With fewer staff since COVID, there are fewer services available to support people with IDD, creating more stress on natural caregivers.

Mental health, respite, and other supports are available to eligible people with IDD and their caregivers in DC through Health Services for Children with Special Needs (HSCSN), the DC Department on Disability Services (DDS), and the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out. If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about harming themselves, please call 988, the national suicide and crisis lifeline.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!