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January 15, 2008Substance Abuse Among the Developmentally Disabled: An Infrequent But Troubling Concern for Society |
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From Ascribe Newsfeed: While mentally retarded or developmentally disabled people may be as vulnerable to substance abuse as the population at large, common approaches for substance abuse treatment often conflict with standard practice in managing MR/DD needs. This important issue is examined in a thoroughly research report contained in the latest issue of Families in Society, a scholarly journal for social services and health professionals. The journal, published by the Alliance for Children and Families, notes that, while overall prevalence of substance abuse (SA) within the mental retardation/developmental disability (MR/DD) population is low, the potential for increased risk of vulnerability and consequences (such as being victimized while under the influence) raise the weight of the issue as a societal concern. Author Elspeth Slayter reports in "Substance Abuse and Mental Retardation" that mentally retarded and developmentally disabled people tend to be less able to assess their substance abuse problems, to find information, and to seek SA treatment, compared with the public at large. A lack of empirical research and communication gaps in the social service system prevent these special needs clients from receiving the unique assistance they need to overcome SA issues, she adds. The publication - available in print, CD-ROM, and online - represents the largest single edition of the journal ever produced in its 88 years of publication. The Alliance for Children and Families is the nation's largest association of private, nonprofit human service agencies and organizations. AScribe transmits news releases directly to newsroom computer systems and desktops of major media organizations via a supremely trusted channel - The Associated Press.
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