Myths of Mental Retardation

Myth 1: Mental retardation is the same as mental "illness."

The fact is: Mental retardation means that a person develops mentally at a below average rate. They may have difficulty in learning and social adjustment. But they can learn. With the appropriate intervention and education, they can lead satisfying and productive lives in the community.

Myth 2: Mental retardation is a contagious disease.

The fact is: Mental retardation is not a disease and it is certainly not contagious. It is a condition which affects an individual because of some change or damage with the developing brain and neurological system.

Myth 3: Persons who are severely and profoundly mentally retarded must be locked away in institutions for their own and society’s safety.

The fact is: Systematic training efforts have proven that most people with severe and profound mental retardation can learn to at least care for their basic needs. Many can perform useful work with support and can otherwise adapt to normal patterns of life. It has been proven that the most effective environment for everyone to learn and develop is one which is in the community and which offers a family-like atmosphere of care and nurturing.

Myth 4: Educational and vocational training will not help people who are mentally retarded.

The fact is: Most persons with mental retardation can learn, although at a slower rate, and are capable of living in the community with little or no support services. Early intervention is a major emphasis since it is proven that the sooner a person is diagnosed as having mental retardation and appropriate programming is started, the more productive and capable the persons will be for a meaningful life in the community. Vocational programs offer a variety of services to prepare individuals for work. They may learn a trade or receive supported employment help to find a job in the competitive work environment.

Myth 5: We do not know what causes mental retardation and it cannot be prevented.

The fact is: Mental retardation can be caused by any condition which impairs development of the brain before or during birth or in early childhood. More than 250 causes have been discovered but they account for only about one-fourth of the causes of mental retardation. The most well-known are: Rubella or German measles in the pregnant female, meningitis, toxoplasmosis, Rh factor; and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome. Mental retardation can be prevented in some cases. Some prevention strategies include:

• Access to good prenatal and postnatal care for mother and child.

• Improved nutrition in pregnant women and infants.

• Avoiding the use of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy.

• Newborn screening to detect disorders such as hypothyroidism and PKU.

• Routine screening and immunizations of mothers to prevent Rh blood factor.

• Use of child seats and seat belts to prevent head injuries.

• Screening for lead poisoning for all children under the age of 5.

People with mental retardation are PEOPLE FIRST. They have the same needs and desires as everyone else. Treat them as individuals. Recognize their ABILITIES not their disabilities.

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