Booklet Anxiety

Mental Retardation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mental retardation?

Mental retardation (MR) is a developmental disability.
It is the most common developmental disorder.
A person who is mentally retarded has a low IQ (low intelligence) and has problems adjusting to everyday life.
Not all children with MR act the same. It can be mild, moderate, or severe.
Each child with MR has different strengths and weaknesses.

What causes it?

The cause of many cases is unknown.
It can be caused by injury, disease, infection, or parts of the brain not working right.
It can be caused before a child is born, during the birthing process, soon after birth, or during childhood.
Genetics can cause MR. Genes from the parents affect how the baby's brain works.
Drug or alcohol use by a pregnant mother can cause MR in her child.

Who can get it?

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms appear before the child is 18 years old.
Children with MR have low intelligence and have problems functioning in everyday life.
They score very low on a test that measures mental ability.
They learn more slowly than other children their same age.
Children with MR often have other physical and emotional problems.
They may have trouble hearing, seeing, or speaking.
They may have problems communicating and socializing (having conversations, making wise judgments, etc.).
They often have other disorders.
Some children with MR feel depressed because they know they are not like other children their age.
If the child can't talk, she may show her feelings by acting out or she may become withdrawn.

How is it treated?

Treatment works best if the child is diagnosed with MR at an early age and it is treated right away.
The goal of treatment is to help the child learn how to be a part of family and community life.
Most children with MR can learn and some can lead independent lives.
In most states, children with MR have a right to special education services at school. Talk to your doctor and teachers.
Your child should be tested to see what her strengths and weaknesses are. Health care workers and teachers will use your child's strengths to teach her more.
Your doctor can help you get your child tested. She will need to be seen by many different professionals.
Some of the professionals can help your child with education. Others can help with speech, vision, and hearing. Others can help with physical therapy or counseling.
Treatment works best when the child's family and all of the professionals work together.
Some medications may help your child.
In some cases, a child with MR may need to be placed in a special home where she can get special care.
Professionals can help the whole family, not just the child with MR. Parents, brothers, sisters, and other people close to children with MR also need support.

How long does it last?

Can it be prevented?

Some cases of MR can be prevented.
Pregnant mothers should not drink alcohol or use drugs.
Pregnant mothers should have regular doctor's appointments during pregnancy to check their health.
Protect your child from head injuries. Children should wear helmets when riding bikes, skating, etc. Children should be placed in car seats or use seatbelts.
If your child shows symptoms of meningitis, take her to the doctor immediately.
See your doctor if your baby has jaundice (yellowish color to the skin). Continue to watch her carefully.
Some counselors may be able to tell parents what their chances are of having a child with MR.
Doctors can give babies blood tests soon after birth to see if they have certain conditions that could lead to MR. If treated soon enough, MR can be prevented.

When should I call the doctor?

Call your doctor if you think your child shows symptoms of mental retardation.
Call your doctor if your child with MR shows symptoms of depression, such as changes in sleeping or eating patterns.
Call your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's treatment or condition.