Staff are not particularly sensitive to the needs of those with intellectual disability, nor are they trained in the sorts of therapies which are likely to be most beneficial. However, they may be useful in providing detoxification services and supporting staff in dealing with minor drug use issues. In particular, behaviour management principles, social skills training and activity therapy can all be modified to deal with drug use. In addition, cognitive therapy has recently been used with those with mild mental disability to recognise high risk situations and to develop alternative solutions. General supportive counselling may also help through listening and understanding.
Social supports are also a key concern.
Family and friends can either help or hinder management of drug use issues. For example, It may sometimes be more productive to find a non-drug using mentor than to work directly with the drug user. Harm reduction Harm reduction is a strategy which aims to reduce the harm associated with drug use, without necessarily reducing the amount of drugs used. The most likely harm of those with intellectual disability associated with drug use is accidents while intoxicated on alcohol or other substances.