Self-Reported Mental Health in Adults with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Record ID: 188

Award(s): Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentorship; Excellence in Research Communication

Program Affiliation: NA

Presentation Type: Poster

Abstract: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a nonprogressive, lifelong neurological disorder that causes problems with movement, posture, and balance. With the majority of cases occurring during prenatal development, CP is present in 2-3 of every 1,000 live births. Individuals with CP have a greater risk of chronic disease, including mental illness, than the general population. Most studies on mental health and CP focus on a pediatric population, and the aim of this study is to increase clinical knowledge of and sensitivity to mental health in adults with CP.   The main research question was whether CP functional status was related to mental health. Other variables, including general health, physical health, and quality of life, were also measured. Data was collected through patient surveys and chart review. No correlation was found between either gross motor or communication functional status and self-reported mental health, which may indicate that relative differences in function are less important than the patient's perceived baseline. Mental health was found to be strongly correlated with general health, quality of life, and social satisfaction. When evaluating mental health in patients with CP, providers should take into account the patient's level of social integration.