ABSTRACT

Introduction: COVID-19 has adversely impacted the health and wellbeing of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). While there is emerging research examining how to support the mental health of this population during the pandemic, the perspectives and experiences of people with IDD have been largely absent.Methods: Nine virtual interviews were conducted with adults with IDD to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their wellbeing and mental health care. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically.Results: Findings centered around three main themes: (1) the impact of the pandemic on daily life and wellbeing; (2) a need for connection; and (3) availability and access to mental health supports.Conclusion: Participants described significant challenges to their health and wellbeing related to the pandemic and public health measures, but also demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of this new adversity. Findings highlight ways to support the wellbeing of adults with IDD and how social determinants impact mental health.

摘要

简介：COVID-19 对智力和发育障碍 (IDD) 人士的健康和福祉产生了不利影响。虽然有新的研究探讨如何在大流行期间支持这一人群的心理健康，但 IDD 患者的观点和经验基本上是缺失的。方法：对 IDD 成年人进行了 9 次虚拟访谈，以探讨 COVID-19 大流行对其健康和心理健康的影响。访谈记录进行了专题分析。结果：调查结果围绕三个主要主题：（1）大流行对日常生活和福祉的影响；(2) 需要连接；(3) 心理健康支持的可用性和可及性。结论：参与者描述了与大流行和公共卫生措施相关的健康和福祉面临的重大挑战，但在面对这种新的逆境时也表现出非凡的韧性。调查结果强调了支持 IDD 成年人福祉的方法以及社会决定因素如何影响心理健康。