Mental Retardation Awareness Month
March 2003

About
Purpose
Definition
Diagnosis
Effect on Schools

What is Mental Retardation Awareness Month?

Since 1979, The Arc of the United States, a charity devoted to people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities, has sponsored this annual observance. During this month, efforts focus on increasing public awareness of mental retardation and related developmental disabilities.

What is the purpose of this observance?

The goal is to enhance the community's understanding of the issues affecting people with mental retardation and to increase acknowledgement of the needs and abilities of people with mental retardation and their families.

What is mental retardation?

The American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR) defines mental retardation as a disability, beginning before the age of 18, that is characterized by significant limitations in both intelligence and adaptive skills. It is not a medical condition or a mental illness, but it can coexist with a mental illness. Mental retardation can be caused by a wide variety of factors that include genetic conditions, pregnancy-related issues, problems during and after childbirth, and exposure to poisonous chemicals.

How is mental retardation diagnosed?

Mental retardation is diagnosed by administering tests to determine skill level within different areas of development. Generally, one indicator is an IQ that is lower than 70-75. The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY) suggests, however, that clinicians use several different methods to get an accurate diagnosis. It is important for clinicians to acknowledge that children with mental retardation may also have co-occurring or secondary mental health disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and conduct disorder.

How are school programs affected by mental retardation?

According to the U.S. Department of Education, more than 614,000 children ages 6 to 21 have some level of mental retardation and need special education in school. The Nation's school system provides special education to facilitate early intervention. It also sets Individualized Education Programs to meet the particular needs of children diagnosed with mental retardation. Each school district's services may vary considerably, based on the funding available to individual schools.