Supporting People with Co-Occurring Diagnoses to Have a Quality Life

As the closure and downsizing of State Operated Facilities continues, community based providers are challenged in supporting individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities with co-occurring conditions. Individuals who have an Axis I diagnosis of mental health disorders are being discharged from these facilities at increasing numbers as the populations of State Operated facilities diminishes. In addition, adolescents with these co-occurring diagnoses are being referred to the I/DD provider community versus the mental health system. The forensic and penal systems are turning to us to assist those with I/DD who have criminally offended or have been identified as “at risk” for re-offending.

Dr. Tom Pomeranz, in this “how to” presentation explains the process for identifying and diagnosing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who experience co-occurring conditions. Tom discusses registration laws and the indicators of reoffending. Tom provides participants with strategies for implementing programs that have proven to be successful.

The protocols to maximize staff ability to maintain “situational awareness” when supporting an individual who places themselves or others at risk are emphasized. An analysis as to why the incidence of psychiatric diagnosis is double in persons with developmental disabilities versus the general population is presented. Further, Tom will explain why many psychiatric diagnoses are missed due to diagnostic overshadowing.

Tom emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing the quality of life for these individuals as a foundation to achieve therapeutic outcomes.