FAQs

Learning disabilities are neurological conditions that affect how an individual’s brain processes information. This means that certain mental tasks—such as reading, writing, or performing math calculations—may present more challenges than they do for others. People with learning disabilities can be highly intelligent and skilled in some areas while needing extra support in others.

Think of it like this: if the brain is a computer, a learning disability is a slightly different operating system. It doesn’t mean a person can’t learn; they just need the right tools and methods to succeed.

These are some of the most common learning and attention challenges.

• Dyslexia mainly affects reading and can make it tough to decode words, learn new vocabulary, or read quickly.
• Dyscalculia impacts math skills, like understanding numbers or solving basic arithmetic.
• Dysgraphia involves problems with writing, including handwriting, spelling, or getting thoughts on paper.

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), on the other hand, is characterized by difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity, though it is not officially classified as a learning disability. Still, ADHD can significantly impact a person’s ability to learn or stay organized. Many individuals with ADHD also have co-occurring learning challenges like Dyslexia or Dyscalculia.

In the United States, it’s estimated that around 1 in 5 individuals experience one or more of these conditions.

While ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is not formally classified as a learning disability, it can impact learning due to its effect on attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD may struggle to focus on tasks, organize their time, or follow through on multi-step assignments. Because of this, their performance in school or at work can suffer, which can look similar to (or occur alongside) a learning disability. 

It’s common to see ADHD co-occurring with conditions like Dyslexia or Dyscalculia, making comprehensive evaluations essential for proper diagnosis and support.

Recognizing a learning disability often begins with noticing recurring struggles in academic or work-related tasks. For children, persistent difficulties with reading, math, writing, or attention in school, along with noticeable frustration or declining grades, can be warning signs.

Adults might notice ongoing struggles in the workplace, such as trouble completing written tasks, remembering details, or handling numerical data. Other signs can include behavioral changes, lack of motivation stemming from repeated academic or professional setbacks, or general confusion in areas that typically come easily to peers.

While these observations can alert you to a potential learning disability, a formal evaluation conducted by an experienced professional is the most reliable way to determine whether a learning disability is present.

Learning disabilities can stem from a variety of factors, including genetic predispositions, issues during brain development, or environmental influences. Because these differences are rooted in brain structure or function, learning disabilities are lifelong.

However, numerous evidence-based strategies, techniques, and accommodations can help individuals manage or compensate for their difficulties, helping people with learning disabilities achieve success in academic settings and beyond.

Absolutely, it can be common for individuals to experience more than one learning or attention-related challenge at a time. For example, a person might have Dyslexia (related to reading) alongside Dysgraphia (related to writing) or ADHD. These co-occurring conditions can compound academic or professional challenges, making it more difficult to pinpoint the root cause of the struggles. 

Comprehensive assessments are critical in these cases to identify every issue accurately, ensuring that individuals receive the right combination of strategies and accommodations.