Ways to Help the Mentally Challenged

in 1971, the United Nations adopted an international declaration on the rights of mentally disabled persons. These rights include the right to fair and adequate legal representation, freedom of religion, the right to assemble, protection against discrimination, the right to work and be paid fairly and the right to an education. Individuals can help the mentally challenged by ensuring they enjoy these basic human rights.

Hiring

• If practicable, consider hiring the mentally challenged. Understand that a mentally handicapped person has significant deficits in cognitive function such that intelligence is typically about 30 points below average, and there are deficits in at least two areas of adaptive functioning, such as grooming, social skills or money management. However, traits such as loyalty, dedication, punctuality and attendance are not related to IQ but rather personality. In fact, persons who are mentally disabled may be more inclined to perform routine or tedious jobs well. Federal tax incentives are available for hiring mentally challenged persons that can offer a maximum tax credit of 40 percent for the first $6,000 during the first year of employment.

Education

• Under the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act passed in 1975, every disabled school-aged child in the United States is entitled to equal and appropriate public education. Integrating children with differences into the mainstream classroom helps everyone become respectful and accepting of diversity. Mentally challenged students can participate at their particular ability level in the same lessons as regular students with support, as needed, from paraprofessionals, speech and physical therapists. Where possible, all students can participate equally in enrichment activities, such as music, art and physical education. Technology is available to assist the mentally challenged in the classroom, from adaptive keyboards to computer screens and communication devices.

Inclusion

• Include the mentally challenged individual in activities. If she is spiritual, you can invite her to your church. Ask for her ideas and praise her efforts equally. The mentally challenged may feel a sense of community with other mentally handicapped individuals. For this reason, there are ombudsmen programs that promote recreational activities for the mentally handicapped, typically through the local parks department. Special Olympics is an excellent resource for community participation. Volunteer opportunities at food banks are also available for the mentally challenged.

Befriending

• Befriend the mentally challenged -- treat him just as you would anyone else. Ask him over for dinner and accept his invitations as well. The mentally handicapped need the social stimulus that friendships offer, and they feel the sting of social isolation just as acutely. If you see someone who is handicapped and in need of assistance, you should ask and offer help. Be a good Samaritan by helping someone who is being harassed, persecuted, intimidated or belittled, just as you would for any other person. If you suspect caretaker abuse, contact adult protective services immediately.