Introduction Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual Disability (ID) seem to influence risk of and vulnerability to exposure to trauma and adverse events. While assessment of psychiatric disorder in ASD and ID generally is challenging, identification of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) seems particularly so, and knowledge does not seem easily accessible. Methods This article provides a systematic review of studies describing trauma reactions in individuals with both ASD and ID, including studies involving any single case with the combination of 3 ASD, ID, and PTSD. To systematically explore PTSD symptom presentation in the group, all reported symptoms from studies were assigned by DSM 5 criteria. Results Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria, eight group studies and ten case studies. Assessment methodology in studies varied, as did the format of symptom report. DSM 5 criteria provided a useful framework for integrating findings across studies, indicating that PTSD may be identified in individuals with ASD and ID. However, symptoms involving alterations in arousal and negative alterations in thought and behavior seem more easily identified than symptoms of re-experiencing and avoidance. Conclusions There is an urgent need to identify behavioral equivalents to PTSD symptoms in this group, making it possible to identify warning signs of trauma and abuse even if such incidents are not known to family or professional carers.

Purpose There are few publications on personality disorder in adults with intellectual disability (ID), and on borderline personality disorder (BPD) specifically. Publications concerning treatment are sparse, despite the high symptom burden in these patients. This paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach Six patients with BPD and ID were recruited from the same inpatient unit. Behaviour problems and mental health symptoms were scored on admission and discharge. Information about treatment, length of stay, etc. was taken from case files. Findings Both mental health symptoms measured by the SCL-90-R, and behaviour problems measured by the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist were significantly reduced on discharge. In the active treatment period, the two main aspects of treatment were validation and practicing new solutions when emotional and behavioural problems occur, i.e. skills training. Research limitations/implications The limitations related to this study are that the study is conducted in one milieu only. Another limitation is that the patients were admitted over a five-year period, where, some changes were made in the treatment approach. Practical implications Inpatient treatment of this patient group seems to be effective if individually adjusted to the patient’s psychopathology, ID and communication style. Close co-operation between the individual therapist and milieu therapists is essential. Originality/value There is a need for intervention studies on BPD in ID. This study may be a valuable contribution.