Living with a disability presents many challenges, and research points to a particularly pressing one: mental distress. In the United States, adults with disabilities experience mental distress at rates far higher than their peers without disabilities. This article looks at those findings, the factors behind them, and what can be done to improve mental health outcomes for this group.
The reality of mental distress among adults with disabilities
In 2018, around 17.4 million adults with disabilities in the US reported frequent mental distress, a rate 4.6 times higher than that of adults without disabilities. This distress is often linked to diagnosed depressive disorders: about half of adults with a disability and a depressive disorder reported frequent mental distress. Notably, one in six adults with disabilities who do not have a diagnosed depressive disorder also experienced frequent mental distress, which may indicate undiagnosed mental health conditions.
Why mental distress is so common
Physical limitations and communication barriers. Adults with physical disabilities may have fewer opportunities for social interaction, which adds to distress. Communication difficulties can limit social engagement further and deepen isolation.
Unmet health care needs. Many adults with disabilities report unmet health care needs, often because of cost. That lack of access can worsen mental distress, which points to the need for better health care policy and accessibility.
Social support. Research shows that more social support is linked to fewer depressive symptoms among adults with physical disabilities. Because of their physical limitations, though, these adults may struggle to build and keep social connections.
What can be done
Screening for mental health conditions. Health care providers should routinely screen for mental health symptoms, even when they are not directly related to the primary disability. This can identify and treat co-occurring conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Promoting healthy lifestyles. A balanced diet, physical activity, quitting smoking and enough sleep all have a positive effect on mental health and overall wellbeing.
Increasing social connectedness. Programs that build social engagement and support make a significant difference. Initiatives that encourage community participation and create opportunities for social interaction can reduce mental distress.
Improving access to health care. Policies that widen access to care for adults with disabilities, particularly those on lower incomes, help address disparities in mental health.
Limitations and future directions
The findings come with limitations. The data is cross-sectional, so it cannot determine causality: whether disability leads to mental distress or the reverse. Severe disabilities may be under-represented in survey data, and the broad categories used to classify disability may not capture every nuance.
More research is needed to understand the mental health challenges faced by adults with disabilities, so that targeted interventions can be designed and existing health promotion strategies improved. In Australia, psychological support is available to eligible people through the NDIS.