Psychological Interventions for Promoting Mental Health in Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

Persons with disabilities (PwD) experience disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges driven by complex interactions of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. This comprehensive review examines psychological interventions aimed at promoting mental health among persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, developmental and psychosocial disabilities. The paper synthesizes evidence from randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, implementation studies, and program reports to evaluate efficacy, adaptation strategies, delivery models, and implementation considerations across income settings. Core interventions discussed include adapted cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance- and mindfulness-based approaches, peer support, family- and caregiver-focused interventions, community-based rehabilitation (CBR) and task-shifting, technology-enabled delivery (telehealth and mHealth), and social inclusion interventions. The review also addresses measurement challenges, equity implications, ethical concerns, and a research roadmap. Practical guidance for clinicians, program planners and policymakers is provided, with appendices containing therapy scripts, outcome measurement recommendations and an implementation checklist.