ABSTRACT
Depression is one of the most prevalent forms of psychopathology (Seligman, 1975). It can seriously interfere with an individual’s personal competence and daily functioning. A large body of recent research has resulted in a strong empirical knowledge base which indicates the efficacy of a wide range of pharmacological and psychological interventions for this disorder. Furthermore, our present understanding of depression is such that we are able to use information about client variables and disorder variables to guide our choice of intervention in order to optimise therapeutic outcome. However, this state of affairs does not hold for people with learning disabilities as this client group has been one of the most ignored populations in terms of receiving mental health services. Fortunately, this situation is changing. In conjunction with the advent of resettlement programmes aimed at facilitating a move from hospital-based accommodation to supported housing in the community, there has been a reappraisal of mental health needs.
