Complicating Handicap

Abstract

Mental handicap is always seen as being the problem first and foremost, and psychiatric complications are simply an extension of the handicap. In the majority of cases the mental handicap is obvious whereas the mental illness is not. It is very easy to dismiss other aspects of the person if they have the burden of a handicap. Strange behavioural traits are seen to be part of the handicapped process. Although we must acknowledge that handicap contributes to other areas of difficulty, we must be ever aware of other causes — causes outside of the handicap itself. It can be difficult and at times impossible to separate the handicap. I am not suggesting that we ignore it completely, merely that we should not be so hasty in jumping to some of the conclusions that we tend to make. If we believe that one in three people will suffer from some form of mental illness in their lifetime, then handicapped people too will be at risk.