Mental Health Matters

Mental health is just as important as physical health—yet it’s often overlooked, especially for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Everyone deserves the chance to thrive emotionally, socially, and mentally. At Special Olympics Vermont, we believe that supporting the whole person means taking care of the mind and the body.

For people with IDD, mental health challenges can be more common, more complex, and often harder to recognize or treat. Adults with disabilities report frequent mental distress almost 5 times more often than those without disabilities. Trauma and social isolation further increase risk. That’s why raising awareness, reducing stigma, and sharing resources is critical. When we talk openly about mental health, we help create inclusive, supportive communities where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.

 Voices of our Health Messengers

We asked our Health Messengers, Nicole, Kate, and Taylor, to share with us how they care for their mental health, tips for others, and their thoughts on the stigmas around mental health. 

NICOLE

“When I am feeling low and down, I listen to music, sometimes I have to take a break from the conversation, and take care of me.” 

“It is very important for people with IDD to take care of their mental health because a lot of stuff is out of our control and it affects us in different ways than it does other people. Mental health is a struggle and a challenge and also a strength in different ways for people with IDD as well.”

KATE

“[Mental Health Awareness] means being aware of not just how your body feels but how your brain because its so easy to forget how closely the two are connected and if one doesn’t feel good the other probably doesn’t feel good either”

“See a guidance counselor or a therapist or have someone to check in with, that’s a great first step.”

TAYLOR

“A lot of people think that people with IDD can’t find ways to cope with mental health, but we’ve so many great ways to face it. I have learned that getting outside for at least 30 minutes to an hour every day really helps the brain decompress.”

“The way that I find to help is when someone is having a hard time I say “how has your day been?” or “how are you doing?”, just like that, just checking in.”

Tips for Everyday Mental Health Care

Practice mindfulness and relaxation

• Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or a 5‑minute guided meditation

Stay physically active

• Regular movement—walking, dancing, or yoga—can improve mood and energy levels. 

Maintain social connection

• Chat with trusted friends or family regularly. 

Track your feelings

• Use journals, icons, or simple rating scales (“happy, okay, sad”) to recognize emotional changes early.

Build a supportive routine

Simple steps—consistent wake/sleep, balanced meals, engaging hobbies—support both mental and physical health.

#InclusiveHealth