Homoeopathic interventions for intellectual disabilities: Assessing caregiver burdens and behavioral improvements

Abstract

Background: Intellectual Disability (ID) involves challenges in both intellectual and adaptive functioning, affecting learning, problem-solving, and daily activities. Manifesting early in development, approximately 1% of the population is affected, with 85% experiencing mild forms, and males more commonly diagnosed. Diagnosis entails assessing intellectual functioning through valid tests, with a score around 70 to 75 indicating significant limitations. Adaptive functioning in language, social skills, and independence is also evaluated. This case report aims to consolidate existing literature, particularly in homoeopathy, emphasizing its potential in managing behavioral aspects of ID. Addressing a gap in the literature, the report focuses on caregivers' burden in the homoeopathic context, aiming to contribute valuable insights to the field. Case summary: A 30-year-old unmarried male, accompanied by his sister, attended at the Psychiatry Outpatient Department (OPD) of the National Homoeopathy Research Institute in Mental Health (NHRIMH), Kottayam on 3rd October 2022. The patient presented a spectrum of concerning behaviors, such as incomprehensible speech, wandering, spitting, hurting tendencies, destructive actions, abusive language, grimacing, laziness, dullness, poor personal care, limited socialization, academic challenges, reduced sleep, hair pulling, and a tendency for frequent masturbation. A comprehensive case analysis followed the Kentian method, and repertorization using Synthesis Repertory in RADAR Opus software led to the administration of Sulphur in 1M potency. Behavioral improvements were assessed using the Behavior Problems Inventory-01 (BPI-01) in every 3 months, while caregiver burden was evaluated with the Burden Assessment Scale (BAS) every six months. Follow up was assessed monthly for a period of one year. Conclusion: This case report offers valuable perspectives on the potential efficacy of homoeopathy in the management of Intellectual Disability (ID), showcasing the behavioral improvement and the alleviation of caregiver burden.