Hidden psychiatric morbidity in a vocational programme for people with intellectual disability

The aim of the present study was to assess the point-prevalence of psychiatric disorders according to DSM-III-R criteria and the hidden morbidity in individuals with intellectual disability working in a vocational setting. The present study was carried out in a vocational centre in Southern Spain which is considered to be a model for social integration. One hundred and thirty workers with intellectual disability were interviewed by two experienced clinicians using the Assessment and Information Rating Profile, DSM-III-R criteria, and the General Assessment of Functioning and Clinical Global Impression scales. The point-prevalence of psychiatric morbidity, hidden morbidity and treatment adequacy were estimated. Morbidity was hidden (i.e. not previously diagnosed) in 50% of psychiatric cases. Forty-two (32.3%) subjects had a psychiatric diagnosis with the following distribution: schizophrenia (17.7%), other psychotic disorders (9.23%), mood disorders (4.61%), adaptive disorders (2.31%), anxiety disorders (1.54%) and other psychiatric disorders (6.15%). Treatment was judged inadequate in 30% of subjects. The point-prevalence of psychiatric problems in a vocational setting in Spain was similar to that found in other environments. Hidden morbidity was similar to that found in primary care. The present study highlights the need for standardized instruments for psychiatric assessment in non-clinical settings as well as specific training in this area.