Factors associated with the identification of mental health conditions among people with learning disabilities in primary care: A scoping review

• Published in: British journal of learning disabilities 2024-03, Vol.52 (1), p.36-53
• Main Authors: Wigham, Sarah, Melvin, Eleanor, Lester, Joe, Bourne, Jane, Harris, Melissa, McKinnon, Iain, Hackett, Simon
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adults; Disabilities; Disability; Health care; Health Conditions; Health Needs; identification; Learning disabilities; learning disability; Medical screening; Mental disorders; Mental health; Meta-analysis; People with disabilities; Primary care; Reviews; Training
• ISSN: 1354-4187; 1468-3156
• DOI: 10.1111/bld.12544

Background Rates of mental health conditions are high among adults with learning disabilities relative to the general population, however research suggests mental health conditions may be missed or under‐identified in this population group. This review considers factors associated with the identification of mental health conditions among adults with learning disabilities in primary care. Methods A scoping review was conducted and reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidance extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) We searched electronic databases (Cinahl, PsychINfo and Medline) for articles published between the years 2000 and 2022. Data were extracted, tabulated and themes were identified. Findings The searches identified 3262 articles and 34 met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Six broad themes were identified including (i) mental health screening in primary care, (ii) education, training and awareness raising for primary care staff, (iii) increasing access to psychological therapies (IAPT) through improved mental health condition case recognition in primary care and IAPT practitioner confidence, (iv) health checks and continuity of care, (v) specialist support for primary care providers, and (vi) awareness raising among adults with learning disabilities. Conclusions There should be efforts to increase availability in primary care of mental health screening measures suitable for people with learning disabilities. Training opportunities for providers across different sectors of health and social care pathways, on the mental health needs of people with a learning disability are also required. The findings can be used to guide the development of services, for adults with learning disabilities and symptoms of mental health conditions in primary care. Accessible summary Many people with learning disabilities have mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. It can be difficult for doctors (general practitioners or GPs) to identify mental health conditions among people with a learning disability. Annual health checks, questionnaires to identify mental health conditions, and training on mental health, can all help doctors and health and care staff address this problem.