Why you should read this article:

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To understand that the health needs of young people with intellectual disabilities often go unrecognised

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To enhance your knowledge of the challenges for this client group in accessing services and interventions

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To familiarise yourself with the support required to enable young people with intellectual disabilities to continue living with their families

Young people with intellectual disabilities are at greater risk of developing mental health issues. However, their mental health needs are often not recognised and therefore remain untreated.

This article discusses a case study concerning a young man with a mild intellectual disability and co-existing obsessive-compulsive disorder, which was first identified in adolescence. It describes his experience of accessing appropriate services and interventions, and details the care and support that he received from community-based services, which enabled him to continue living with his family. The case study reveals various issues that are relevant to other young people in similar situations, as well as for service providers and professionals, including intellectual disability nurses.