Learning Disabilities (Specific Learning Disorders) and Therapy
Navigating the world with a learning disability can be difficult, as these individuals have a unique experience that can create challenges throughout their lifetime. While the difficulty might only affect one part of the person's learning process, the effects can be felt in their educational pursuits, social interactions, and overall well-being. Therapy can be a helpful tool to overcome many of the barriers that interfere with and affect the experiences and mental health of these individuals.
Understanding Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)
Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), or learning disabilities as they are more commonly known, affect reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), and math (dyscalculia). SLDs are one of the categories of neurodevelopmental disorders recognized in the DSM-5, along with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), communication disorders, or motor disorders (such as tics or Tourettes). Neurodevelopmental disorders are often diagnosed in childhood and are chronic, following a person throughout their lifetime. The impact on a person's life can be mild, moderate, or severe, regardless of a formal diagnosis.
How SLDs Affect Mental Health
While the impacts of SLDs are often seen as a person progresses through school, the effects can take a toll on an individual's mental health and overall well-being. Academic struggles can cause frustration, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, which can often translate to the individual's relationships and life outside of school. While there are ways to address these difficulties within the learning environment, working with a therapist can address the impact on a person's emotions, relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Therapy for Individuals with SLDs and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders
For individuals who struggle within the traditional structures of the education system, working alongside a therapist provides a space personalized to their unique experience and empowers them to be active in the therapeutic process. Working with their therapist, the individual can focus on their strengths, accept their weaknesses, and pursue a meaningful life.
The Therapeutic Approach
While each therapist's approach differs based on their skills and the unique relationship formed with each client, several techniques can be helpful for those hoping to overcome the impacts of their SLDs. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help alter negative thoughts associated with their disorder and develop coping skills to combat the frustration experienced when the person struggles in their life. Mindfulness-based approaches allow people to focus on the present, manage their stress, and know how experiences affect them. Family therapy allows the individual's family to be involved in the process, addressing family dynamics, allowing a safe space for open communication, and fostering understanding and support for the individual. Psychoeducation is another essential part of the process, as many individuals diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder or their families lack the necessary information to understand the condition and what supports might better accommodate the person throughout their life.
Experiencing or being diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder can be overwhelming and come with complicated emotions for individuals and their families. Working alongside a therapist, families and individuals can learn to accommodate these differences and overcome the academic, emotional, and social effects. Individuals can live a life filled with joy, success, and meaningful relationships by improving their understanding, acceptance and resilience.
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