Developmental Disability Awareness

Developmental disabilities are severe, long-term problems that may be physical such as blindness, or mental such as a learning disability. It is possible that the problem can be both, physical and mental such as Down Syndrome – a condition where a person has an extra chromosome. These problems are usually life-long and affect everyday living.

Developmental disabilities are typically identified in infancy or early childhood, but can also be discovered in adulthood. Early detection makes it easier to correct an issue and provide the support a child needs to meet their full potential.

According to CRCHealth.com, experts don’t know the cause of developmental disabilities. Some possible causes can include: chromosomal abnormalities, complications during pregnancy or birth, environmental exposure to lead or mercury, genetics, infectious diseases, nutritional deficiencies, or a severe head injury.

The most common types of development disabilities are Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD or ADHD), Asperger’s, Autism Spectrum Disorders, birth defects, Intellectual, and sensory-related disabilities (issues with sight, sound, and other stimuli). 

Possible signs if a developmental disability include: continued infant-like behavior, difficultly self-soothing or expressing feelings, falling behind in school, hearing loss, lack of curiosity, lagging behind other children in fine motor, language, social or thinking skills, problems with aggression, and attention or sleep, problems with balance, coordination, and posture. 

Various types of treatment include: behavioral therapy, life and social skills training, medication, physical Therapy, speech therapy, and/ or surgery.

Treatment can help; however, these conditions cannot be cured as they can last for years or be lifelong.

If you or someone you know has a developmental disability and needs assistance or access to resources, please call the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network’s 24/7 Access HelpLine at 1-800-241-4949.