The purpose of the observance is to promote public awareness of mental retardation and help educate the community about the unique needs and issues that affect people with mental retardation. “Our focus is to raise awareness of the 121,000 Alabamians with mental retardation,” said ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens) of Alabama Executive Director, Thomas Holmes. “We urge people to support efforts that enable people with disabilities to live full and productive lives of inclusion within our communities.”

According to the ARC/US, the sponsors of National Mental Retardation Awareness Month, there are more than 7.2 million people in the U.S. who have mental retardation. Mental retardation is a life-long disability that is present before the age of 18. Typically, people with mental retardation have an IQ below 70-75 and have significant limitations in two or more adaptive skill areas that include communication, social skills, education, work, and other daily living skills.

When given access to learning opportunities and appropriate support, people with mental retardation can make valuable contributions to society. Occupational experiences can help boost their self-esteem while earning income. “People with disabilities, such as myself, can accomplish just about anything with the right supports,” says Joe Meadours, Director, Office of Consumer Empowerment for DMH/MR Mental Retardation Services Division.

People with mental retardation should not be feared or stereotyped. They have dreams hopes and goals like everyone else. “Accept me for who I am,” said Meadours. “I am a person first…my disability is second.”

Educating the community about mental retardation can help alleviate fears and reduce stigma associated with the diagnosis. Mental retardation crosses all racial, social and economic lines and can occur in any family. Two known causes of mental retardation are the genetic conditions of Down Syndrome and Fragile X. Other causes include:

• Use of alcohol or drugs by the pregnant mother, which can cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Complications at birth such prematurity or low birth weight
• Childhood diseases such as chicken pox, measles and HIV, which can cause brain damage
• Environmental health hazards
• Serious injury to the brain

 

Advances in research and vaccinations have prevented many cases of mental retardation. Prenatal care during a woman’s pregnancy and other intervention methods can reduce the chance of mental retardation. Also, preventive interventions such as child safety seats and bicycle helmets can significantly reduce head trauma.

RESOURCES

For more information about mental retardation and Mental Retardation Awareness Month, visit the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) website at http://www.thearc.org.

Information about mental retardation services in the state of Alabama and the Office of Consumer Empowerment can be obtained by contacting the DMH/MR Mental Retardation Services Division at (334) 242-3701.
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