The problem:
There is an increasing recognition that up to 70% of individuals with ID/DD can have additional diagnoses in mental health. These often result in challenging behaviors that make it hard to integrate into existing service systems. It is important to provide this information to practitioners in fields of education, medicine, counseling, as well as to families and individuals with ID/DD.
Action:
In 2022, the FDDC conducted a research study to determine the understanding of this topic in Florida and nationally. An introductory series of 6 2-hour trainings was provided in person, virtually, and asynchronously. The next year, additional trainings were developed and provided on behavioral crisis, which were provided in-person, virtually, and asynchronously. Representatives from related state agencies served on an advisory group.
Results:
280 individuals participated in the original introductory training series representing 53 of Florida’s 67 counties, and 378 participated in the more specialized crisis prevention, management, and post-crisis training representing 25 counties. 97% of participants in the original training expressed that the training deepened their understanding of dual diagnosis. 99% felt the training was useful in their daily lives. In the advanced crisis training, between 89-96% increased knowledge.
Unique role of the Council:
The Council took the lead in dual diagnosis in Florida’s ID/DD population. Their relationships with relevant state agencies and their previous collaborative work, made this possible.