Premium
Exploring perceptions of positive mental health in young adults with intellectual disabilities
Author(s) -
Bailey DarcieAnne,
Ford Laurie,
Knight Victoria F.
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1111/jar.12932
Subject(s) - mental health , psychology , mental health literacy , clarity , phenomenography , intellectual disability , psychoeducation , perception , mental health law , population , clinical psychology , developmental psychology , psychological intervention , psychiatry , medicine , mental illness , environmental health , pedagogy , biochemistry , chemistry , neuroscience
Background Despite having higher levels of mental health difficulties than the general population, limited research exists about how individuals with intellectual disabilities view mental health. Providing education about mental health literacy can contribute to maintaining positive mental health. Individuals who understand positive mental health are more likely to take steps to improve their mental health. Aims This study explores how young adults with intellectual disabilities conceptualise and define the concept of positive mental health. Materials & Methods Eight participants were interviewed using phenomenographic methods. Results Using phenomenography as the approach, four categories of description emerged from the analysis and included defining positive mental health as related to physical health, lack of clarity about positive mental health, positive qualities (emotions and actions) and mental health components. Discussion This study highlights the need for further research, exploring how to provide support through psychoeducation to individuals with intellectual disabilities about mental health.