Do I Have A Specific Learning Disorder?

Do you show inaccurate or slow and difficult word reading for at least the last 6 months?

Do you have difficulties understanding the meaning of what is read for at least the last 6 months?

Do you have difficulties with spelling for at least the last 6 months?

Do you have difficulties with written expression (e.g., multiple grammatical or punctuation errors within sentences) for at least the last 6 months?

Do you have difficulties mastering number sense or calculation for at least the last 6 months?

Do you have difficulties with mathematical reasoning for at least the last 6 months?

Are the affected academic skills substantially and quantifiably below those expected for your chronological age and cause problems related to academic or occupational performance, or with daily activities?

Did the learning difficulties begin during school-age years? Note: it is possible that the disorder may not be recognized until adulthood.

Can you confirm that the learning difficulties are not better explained by intellectual disabilities, uncorrected visual or auditory acuity, other mental or neurological disorders, psychosocial adversity, lack of proficiency in the language of academic instruction or inadequate educational instruction?

You do not have specific learning disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have specific learning disorder, you are displaying some signs related to the disorder. It is recommended to ask your doctor for advice. If learning disorders are not managed in time, it can cause additional problems throughout your life, such as psychological distress, unemployment and poorer mental health. It is therefore important to recognize signs of a specific learning disorder to find out if treatment is needed.

Unfortunately, you are displaying numerous symptoms typically seen among individuals who have specific learning disorder. In this case it’s essential to plan a visit to your doctor. Your doctor will ask you questions about family history and school reports. Your doctor may conduct a neuropsychological test. There is no way to ‘cure’ specific learning disorder, but with the right interventions it can be managed throughout your life. You can become a skilled learner. You don’t need to be completely limited, there are plenty of opportunities for success. It is important to start interventions early, so treatment can be more effective.