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Disability as a Precursor to Mental Health Challenges

Ibraheem Abiodun Salako

Introduction: Disability is a controversial topic of discourse in recent times as a result of documented tremendous increase in the incidence rates of conditions that leave individuals with significant limitations or restrictions in functioning. Research has shown that health needs of persons with disabilities may vary depending on the nature of their disability which if left unattended to may lead to conditions that compound the effects of the disability such as mental health problems. Objective: The primary aim of this study is to narrative review of qualitative studies on the incidence of mental health problems amongst the disabled category. Methods: Keyword searches of Pubmed database, manual searches of reference lists of related articles. Results: Data gathered revealed that persons with disabilities are more likely than others to experience mental health problems which may be as a result of the psychological burden associated with the condition and/or the effects of the medications that are been used to suppress the disabling condition. Conclusion: Quality of life measures should be carried out on every individual in the disabled category. Mental health service should be provided early enough and focus on identified specific health needs of each individual involved so as to cushion the effects of disability, improve mental health outcomes and ultimately, the quality of life experienced by persons with disabilities.