Service problems and solutions for individuals with mental retardation and mental illness

Individuals with mental retardation and mental illness often have difficulty receiving necessary services in the community. Individuals with dual diagnosis are often overlooked by professionals due to the clear separation between the mental health and mental retardation service systems. This paper examines the specific problems surrounding service provision to people with dual diagnosis and highlights several community programs designed to overcome service barriers. Specific recommendations for designing comprehensive and collaborative treatment and service programs for this population are described in order to guide more communities toward overcoming the barriers to serving individuals with dual diagnosis.