Learning Disorders
Learning disabilities are a complex and misunderstood set of deficiencies that can make it difficult to learn new skills and adapt to social situations. Many children who suffer from learning disorders are not diagnosed until the condition has already caused them significant stress in school and life. If these problems are not caught early it can lead to self-esteem issues, developmental issues, and also cause a sharp decline in motivation towards academic fulfillment.
The best way to start making progress is to understand what exactly learning disorders are.
What Are Learning Disorders?
Learning disorders cause those affected to suffer from information-processing difficulties. This makes it very hard for those affected to convert information into usable skills and can cause significant distress when trying to apply learned information in everyday situations. These disabilities actually can affect individuals at all levels of intelligence. This results in learning disorders to appear as gaps in knowledge in certain skills or academic topics.
Common learning disorders will cause difficulties with reading comprehension, math, written expression, and also non-verbal skills. They can also cause children to avoid learning and unfamiliar situations. Some of the most common things to watch out for in those suffering from a learning disorder include:
- Recalling what was read
- Slow handwriting
- Having trouble with spelling after multiple attempts
- Interpreting social cues
- Physical coordination
- Planning and organizational skills
How Common Are Learning Disabilities?
As many as 1 out of 5 children in the U.S. suffer from some type of learning disability. Researchers believe that these disorders are caused by differences in brain activity and the associated information-processing mechanisms. These disabilities can vary greatly from person to person for this precise reason. Factors such as genetics, psychological trauma, and even pre-natal risks can cause children to have a higher chance of having some type of learning disability.
How To Properly Treat a Learning Disorder
When it comes to learning disorders, time is of the essence due to how quickly these problems can pile up and cause developmental issues. There is no absolute “cure” for mental disabilities. However, taking steps to address the areas a child is struggling in and providing both academic as well as emotional support can be crucial to support healthier brain development and a better ability to overcome these barriers.
The brain is not completely developed until age 25. Learning disabilities are commonly just results of natural development and genetics in most cases. This is why these disabilities occur in such unique ways across different individuals. The best way to ensure proper development is to have patience and get support for the areas the child is struggling in. It is very important to make sure they understand they are not “different”, as this can lead to triggering anxiety, depression, and a host of other mental issues.
The Harbor Psychiatry and Mental Health Difference
We understand the importance of intervention for children who have learning disabilities. Our team of psychiatrists and psychologists use various learning disability testing methodologies to ensure a proper diagnosis. We then take a calm, reinforcing therapeutic approach in the treatment process to help patients understand what they are going through and provide emotional support through it. Education is a powerful tool – and helping those who struggle with these disabilities both understand what they are going through are invaluable. We provide our patients with personalized therapy that is designed to be patient and supportive.