Mental Wellness in Adults with Down Syndrome : A Guide to Emotional & Behavioral Strengths & Challenges

In this groundbreaking book, the founding directors of the Adult Down Syndrome Center of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois - the first and premier facility of its type in North America - share nearly 30 years of combined experience, treating over 3000 adolescents and adults with Down syndrome aged 12 to 83. This is an invaluable resource for parents, mental health professionals, teachers and caregivers who want to understand how to promote mental health and resolve psychosocial problems in people with Down syndrome. This authoritative, upbeat, and easy-to-read guide clarifies what the common behavioural characteristics of Down syndrome are, how some could be mistaken for mental illness, and what bona fide mental health problems occur more commonly in people with Down syndrome. As Chicoine and McGuire describe these traits and mental health issues, they also explain, through observations and case studies based on their patients, how parents, caregivers, and adults with Down syndrome can work together to foster mental wellness. In addition, the authors discuss the importance of regular assessment and how behaviour and mental well-being can be affected by environmental conditions, social opportunities, and physical health. The first section of the book offers a wealth of knowledge and insight about typical behavioural traits of Down syndrome and how to work with teens and adults to encourage mental wellness on a day-to-day basis. For each condition, the authors describe the problem signs, the diagnostic process and a range of treatment options, such as counselling, behavioural therapy and medications. Now, readers all over the world can pay a virtual visit to the Adult Down Syndrome Center and benefit from the insight and expertise of Drs. McGuire and Chicoine. Anyone who knows or cares for someone with Down syndrome will understand them better after reading this guide.