Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Of the five types of trauma and stress related disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is more common for people who have an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) than among the general population.
Abstract
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder – Fifth Edition (DSM 5) is the guide for diagnosing mental disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM 5 lists five types of trauma and stress related disorders.iii Of the five, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is more common for people who have an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) than among the general population. Some experts believe as many as 90 percent of people with intellectual disabilities have some level of traumatic stress. It is estimated that people with disabilities are twice as likely to experience abuse. iv