Positive Approaches Journal, Volume 13, Issue 4

Volume 13 ► Issue 4 ► March 2025

The Intersection of Mental and Physical Health Impacting our Communities:

Part 1

Everyone has a right to an everyday life that includes being as healthy as possible both mentally and physically. Participating in and having the best possible everyday life can be challenging for individuals with an intellectual disability and/or autism (ID/A), especially if they have both physical and mental health needs. These individuals may need specific support and treatment to ensure they can achieve their best possible everyday life. In collaboration with the Information Sharing and Advisory Committee (ISAC), a list of 12 recommendations were developed to support individuals with ID/A in achieving their best possible everyday life. Recommendation five (5) is to promote health, wellness, and safety. Recommendation six (6) is to support people with complex needs. Representing resources from both the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS), the next two issues of the Positive Approaches Journal are devoted to the discussion of topics related to challenges around maintaining and supporting both physical and mental health and to provide information on resources.  

In this first issue we will discuss the shortage of both primary health and mental health care professionals. We will also discuss the five primary health conditions that can significantly elevate the risk of severe illness and death in individuals with ID/A, supporting nutritional needs of individuals with autism, utilizing a public health approach to address wellness for individuals who have encountered trauma, and supporting individuals and their families who have survived suicide.