How can I support the mental health needs of patients with learning disabilities in my practice?

Support patients with learning disabilities by ensuring they have an annual health check using NHS England's learning disability annual health check electronic clinical template, involving a family member, carer, or a knowledgeable healthcare professional, and allowing extra time if needed ¹.

Include in the health check a mental health review, assessing for known or suspected mental health problems and their links to physical health, as well as a physical health review and a review of current interventions, medications, and side effects ¹.

Support engagement in community activities, leisure pursuits, and meaningful employment, with practical assistance such as preparing CVs, completing applications, and accompanying them to interviews, while considering their sensory, physical, cognitive, and communication needs ¹.

Train staff to be aware of the increased risk of mental health problems in people with learning disabilities, recognizing that symptoms may present differently and are often overlooked, and ensure staff are competent and receive high-quality supervision ¹.

Provide support to family members and carers, acknowledging the impact of caring and offering guidance on accessing disability-specific support groups or mental health interventions if they have their own mental health needs ¹.