Significance of Employment opportunities among individuals living with intellectual disabilities by Dr Nadeem Ghayas.

October 10, 2024

Intellectual disability or General Learning Disability (in the United Kingdom) and formerly mental retardation (in the United States) is a generalized neurodevelopment disorder that leads to severe maladaptive intellectual and adaptive functioning that is first manifested during childhood.

Intellectually challenged people usually struggle a lot to secure employment. Majority of them are unemployed and those who are employed do not receive decent pay. Job is significant to intellectually challenged persons. It is assisting them to be more independent. By earning their own money, they would be able to take care of themselves and make decisions concerning their lives. This increases their self-esteem and confidence.

Second, it enables them to have friends. Working implies meeting with colleagues and engaging in group work, and this may establish a feeling of togetherness and affiliation. Emotional well being involves social relations.

Third, employment enables people to be better and acquire new skills. By achieving experience in various activities, make them more marketable. Their careers are not the only beneficiaries of this learning process because they also feel accomplished. Moreover, a habitual work routine can bring the routine, which is usually soothing and helps to get rid of anxiety. This building is significant in terms of psychological wellness and sanity.

Besides, work provides individuals with purpose. They feel valued and important when they make contributions to a team or when they accomplish tasks. This sense of meaning can contribute significantly to their general happiness and fulfillment with life.

Lastly, in the event that the intellectual disabled are employed, they contribute to the society and the economy. Their involvement will contribute to breaking stereotypes and fostering tolerance and integration.