The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD explains what Intellectual Disability (ID) and Intellectual Developmental Disability (IDD) mean. Based on Texas and DSM-5 standards, ID involves significant limits in learning, reasoning, and problem-solving, as well as daily living skills like communication and self-care. Causes can include injury, illness, or brain problems before age 18. The Harris Center serves Houston residents on a sliding scale fee and offers a 24/7 Crisis and Access Line at
713-970-7000See detail →Ask about this →.
The 24/7 Crisis and Access Line is always open with counselors available to speak with you if you need mental health support. Dial 713.970.7000.
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What is Intellectual Developmental Disability (IDD) / Intellectual Disability (ID)?
According to the Texas Administrative Code and DSM-5, Intellectual Disability is a term used when there are significant impairments in general mental abilities that impact adaptive functioning in 2 main areas:
Intellectual functioning refers to the ability to learn, reason, and problem-solve in areas involving language, reading, writing, math, general knowledge, and memory.
Adaptive behavior refers to the domains and skills that people need to function independently at home, at school, and in the community, including skills like communication, self-care, home living, social skills, motor skills, academic skills, and community skills.
Levels of intellectual disability vary greatly in children. Intellectual Disability can be caused be a problem that starts any time before a child turns 18 years old – even before birth. Intellectual Disability may be caused by injury, disease, or a problem in the brain. For many children, the cause of their intellectual disability is not known. Other causes of Intellectual Disability do not occur until a child is older, including serious head injury, stroke, or certain infections.
It is important to note that there are slight variations in the criteria set by the Texas Education Agency, TAC, and the DSM-5. An IDD diagnosis given by a psychologist in private practice, or physician, may not be based on information sufficient to meet TAC standards.
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD
9401 Southwest Freeway
Houston, TX 77074
713-970-7000See detail →Ask about this →
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