Substance misuse in people with developmental disability

Drug use and abuse, including experimentation with alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, may occur in people with developmental disability, the same as in the general population. People with intellectual disability:

• are particularly vulnerable to the influence of the media and their peers
• have diminished ability to appreciate the consequences of their actions.

Parents and others supporting young people with disability must be alert for signs of drug abuse and of manipulation or exploitation by others. If there is concern about illicit substance abuse, perform a urinary screen.

People with developmental disability and drug or alcohol problems should be managed as in the general population, with consideration of reasonable adjustments to care (eg accessible information, additional support). For more advice, see Alcohol and other drug problems.