Resources and Downloads
Stress, Anxiety and Depression
Jun 1, 2024
How to cope with stress, anxiety and depression
Mental Health and Learning Disability
Everyone has mental health. This means how we feel, think, and cope with life. People with a learning disability can have good mental health—but they are more likely to experience poor mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression.
Did You Know?
- People with a learning disability are more than twice as likely to experience mental health problems.
- Around 40% of people with a learning disability have a mental health condition.
- A 2024 review of 800 adults using services in Northern Ireland found high levels of mental health need: 37% had anxiety, 19% depression, 11% psychological trauma, 8% psychosis, and 9% a history of deliberate self-harm.
- But many people don’t get the help they need, or their mental health problems go unnoticed.
What is Stress and Anxiety?
Stress
Stress is when life feels like too much to handle. It can happen if you’re feeling rushed, worried, or under pressure.
Anxiety
Anxiety is when worry becomes constant or overwhelming. It might make you feel scared, panicky, or shaky—even when there’s nothing dangerous around.
You might feel:
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweaty or shaky
- Trouble sleeping
- Scared something bad will happen
- Avoiding things you used to enjoy
How to Cope:
- Talk to someone you trust – a friend, carer, family member, or key worker
- Use calming activities like music, deep breathing, drawing, or walking
- Stick to a routine – it can help you feel more in control
- Ask your GP or support worker if you need more help
- Try easy-read resources or apps that help manage stress
What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It’s a health condition that can make you feel low or hopeless for weeks or months.
You might feel:
- Very tired all the time
- Sad or empty
- Losing interest in things you enjoy
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Thinking badly about yourself
- Not wanting to be around others
How to Cope:
- Talk to your GP – they can check your health and offer treatment
- Spend time with people who care about you
- Try small things each day – a walk, music, or something fun
- Keep a journal of your feelings
- Ask about support groups, talking therapy, or medication
Spot the signs, speak up, and seek support—mental health is just as important as physical health.
Getting Help Is a Strength
People with a learning disability can and do recover from mental health problems with the right support. It’s important to:
- Notice changes in how you or someone you support is feeling
- Ask for help early – don’t wait until things get worse
- Use clear, easy-read information
- Work together with family, carers, and professionals
Where to Find Support
- Your GP or local health professional
- Community Learning Disability Teams
- Easy-read mental health guides (e.g. Mind, Mencap, NHS
Mental health matters—for everyone.
With the right help, people with a learning disability can feel better, stay well, and live fulfilling lives.
- Easy Read
-
- Anxiety Easy Read Guide – NHS
- Feeling Down Booklet – University of Glasgow & NHS
- Stress Easy Read Information – NHS
- Feeling Down: Looking After My Mental Health – FPLD, Easy Read
- Ron’s Feeling Blue – Books Beyond Words
- Sonia’s Feeling Sad – Books Beyond Words
- How to tell if someone is struggling with their mental health – Mencap, Easy Read
- Useful Information
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- Depression and learning disability – FPLD
- Info sheet: Mental health problems in people with a learning disability – Challenging Behaviour Foundation
- Depression In People With Intellectual Disabilities – University of Hertfordshire