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Dear Editor:
March is recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a time to celebrate, advocate, and promote inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. It also highlights the experiences, rights, and contributions of people with developmental disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and sensory impairments.
The month also emphasizes public education, advocacy, respect for individual rights, and opportunities for people of all abilities to participate fully in society. It encourages communities to foster understanding, reduce stigma, and create inclusive environments in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
DDAM was officially established in 1987 and serves as a reminder that individuals with developmental disabilities have unique talents and contributions.
People with developmental and intellectual disabilities face a significantly higher risk of suicide, suicide attempts, and suicidal ideation compared to the general population. Adults with disabilities have a suicide rate approximately 2.5 times higher than those without.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, autistic people report suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Research indicates that rates of death by suicide are higher for autistic people. A 2024 meta-analysis estimated that the relative risk of autistic people dying by suicide was 2.85 times higher than population comparisons. The same meta-analysis indicated that one in three autistic individuals reported suicidal ideation. Suicide has become a leading cause of death among autistic youth. They are two to three times more likely to experience depression and seven to eight times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts.
Research conducted by Florida Atlantic University and published in the journal Current Psychology in 2025 sheds light on the growing concern of suicidal ideation among young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The study’s data shows that young adults with these disabilities may actually face heightened suicide risk due to social isolation, abuse, bullying, trauma, and limited access to appropriate care and education.
The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is a valuable resource if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health. JFI is dedicated to the prevention of suicide through educational awareness programs that equip us with the tools and resources needed to identify and assist at-risk youth and young adults. It is important to know the warning signs and risk factors associated with suicidal ideation. Knowing this information could be key to saving a life.
For more information, or to find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, visit JasonFoundation.com.
Scott Knight
Senior Director of Field Operations
The Jason Foundation, Inc.