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Learning Difficulties
AKA. Specific Learning Disorder (SLD)
Learning difficulties (or specific learning disorder) are neurodevelopmental conditions that affect core academic skills such as reading, writing, or math. Common challenges include trouble with spelling, sequencing, number sense, or organizing thoughts, often leading to frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Early intervention, individualized education plans, and targeted therapies can significantly improve skills, coping strategies, and confidence.
Common Symptoms of Learning Difficulties
READING / LANGUAGE (DYSLEXIA)
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Difficulty spelling, rhyming, or sounding out words
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Slow, inaccurate, or effortful reading
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Avoidance of reading tasks or becoming easily fatigued when reading
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Difficulty understanding the meaning of what is read
WRITING (DYSGRAPHIA)
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Poor or illegible handwriting
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Slow writing speed or fatigue during writing tasks
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Difficulty organizing thoughts into written form
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Mixing up letters or symbols
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Problems with spelling, grammar, and sentence structure
MATH (DYSCALCULIA)
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Difficulty understanding numbers and basic math rules
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Difficulty understanding mathematical symbols, concepts and reasoning
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Challenges organizing mathematical information
A comprehensive assessment is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective intervention.
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History Taking: Review developmental, social, family, and school performance
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Medical & Neurological Exam: Rule out hearing, vision, or other medical issues
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Academic & Psychological Testing: Standardized tests for reading, writing, math, IQ, memory, and processing speed (e.g., WISC-V, WAIS-IV)
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Observation: Assess learning style and behavior across settings
Diagnosis follows criteria from the DSM-5-TR, forming the basis for individualized support plans or educational interventions.
Clinical Assessment of Learning Difficulties
Therapies & Support That Help
Educational & Academic Support
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Remedial teaching and individualized learning strategies
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Intensive tutoring or programs to improve reading, writing, math, and executive functioning
Behavioral & Emotional Therapies
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Behavioral therapy for attention, impulse control, social skills, and self-esteem
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Counseling or psychotherapy to manage stress, frustration, and build coping strategies
Speech & Occupational Therapy
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Speech therapy for language-based difficulties and communication
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Occupational therapy (OT) for fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and visual-motor integration
Family & School Support
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Coordinated interventions involving parents, teachers, and psychologists
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Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to the student’s needs
KEY TAKEAWAY
With early identification, targeted therapies, and collaborative support, individuals with learning difficulties can improve academic performance, build self-confidence, and develop lifelong coping strategies.