What does it mean that my child is mentally retarded?

Mental retardation is not a disease that you can "catch". It is not something your child will "grow" out of. There are no medicines or treatments that "cure" mental retardation. It is something that your child will always have. But all this being said, many mentally retarded people lead fulfilling lives. They have many close friends, work in rewarding jobs and are an important part of their community.

Sometimes mental retardation (MR) is referred to as "special needs". Special needs children's brains are wired differently. They have difficulty with the tasks of typical daily life that others take for granted. They may have difficulty with talking, taking care of themselves, and making decisions. Judging what is safe and what is not is also hard. They also typically have difficulty in social, school, work or play activities. Special needs children usually need special classes or receive some sort of special help in school. However, the diagnosis of MR means different things for different children. Depending on the severity of your child's condition, they will need different kinds of help. Some children need a great deal of structure. Others are able to function nearly independently.

Your child will have the best chance for success if you are positive, supportive and seek out the best help available. Join a national organization that advocates for mentally retarded people. You will meet other families who have a special needs child. You will get the latest medical information.