Impact: Feature Issue on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services for Persons with Developmental Disabilities

2010

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A recent report from the National Association on Alcohol, Drugs, and Disability estimates that nearly 6 million Americans with disabilities also have substance abuse problems. Among these 6 million are persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities, individuals who are not often thought of as being at-risk for alcoholism and drug addiction. As growing numbers of people with developmental disabilities are living, learning, and working in inclusive community settings, their exposure to substances of abuse and their freedom of choice regarding use are increasing. At the same time, attention to prevention, intervention, treatment, and aftercare approaches and programs that meet their needs are lagging behind. In this Impact, the focus is on ways in which substance abuse service providers and disability service providers can begin to pool their expertise to recognize and respond appropriately to the often complex needs of persons with developmental disabilities who are abusing alcohol or other drugs. It is hoped that the articles in these pages will prompt further reflection, discussion, and investigation on the topic, and result in new efforts to open up options for a "clean and sober" life to all members of our community.

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