Adults with a Disability Have Increased Risk of Sexual and Physical Abuse

Adults with mental illness are approximately 4x more likely to be abused (sexually and physically) and those with intellectual impairment are 1.5x more likely.  Why?! Often times, society shrugs off what these adults claim and assume they are just "crazy" or not knowing what they are talking about.  Perhaps some of these adults aren't aware of the severity of their abuse, therefore never mention it to anyone, or they simply have no way to communicate it.

It is important to listen and BELIEVE any communication of abuse and look further into the situation.  It is also important to teach these adults about health sexuality and proper relationships.  Often times the abuser is someone the adult is close to and possibly dependent upon - making it that much more difficult for the victim to obtain help.  The abuse may have been something they have dealt with their whole lifetime, therefore don't even realize the wrong in it.

Aside from the sexual and physical abuse, they also have increased abuse in emotional and verbal abuse, as well as neglect and manipulation.  These individuals are already dealing with their disability and striving to live as normally as possible.  This abuse can often become a bigger disability in their life.  If you are in a position that works with adults with disabilities, please take the time to recognize any signs of abuse and don't be afraid to help.