01/11/2021 “Dyslexia vs. Other Learning Hidden Disabilities – Part-Two” By - Kaylee McGrath

To complete my two-part series article, I would like to share with our readers several other additional “Hidden” learning disabilities that effect children and adults.

What is and What are the Most Common Symptoms of Dyscalculia:

A learning disability disorder that is noticeable by the inability to learn basic introductory and everyday math skills that is required for the essential needs of everyone. However, there are some individuals with this disability that can learn very advanced mathematics but it is hard for them to process formulas or do basic math. Many people with this disorder also struggle with visual-spatial relationships or processing what they hear. Dyscalculia can also differ from person to person.

What is “Visual-Spatial Relationships”: Difficulties with sense of direction, rotation, estimating size, shape, distance, and telling time.

What is and What are the Most Common Symptoms of Dysnomia:

A learning disability that is noticeable with the difficulty in recalling words, names, numbers, etc. from memory. The seriousness of this disability is with the fact of the words that those who suffer from this disorder cannot remember words that are essential for oral communication and writing skills. The person may provide a detailed description of the word in question but is unable to recall its exact name. Dysnomia is often misdiagnosed as an expressive language disorder. It is highly recommended If someone suffers with these symptoms they need to be evaluated by a Neurologist.

Most Common Symptoms of Dyspraxia (also known as Apraxia)

A learning disability that is noticeable with the difficulty in carrying out daily routines that require the use of balance, fine-motor skills, and coordination. Sometimes the individuals who suffer from this disorder, especially children, are assumed as being “clumsy” or “awkward.” Children with Dyspraxia need to be treated by an Occupational Therapist to strengthen their fine and gross motor skills. Verbal Dyspraxia describes a deficiency in using speech sounds, which is usually the sign of a “Developmental Delay” (which is very common with those born to extreme prematurity, like me). Verbal Dyspraxia can be separate from or accompany Dyspraxia. Children with Dyspraxia may also suffer from slightly slurred speech and short-term memory loss.

While doing this research on various “Hidden Disabilities”, I found myself realizing how many of my former classmates, including myself, suffered throughout our school years. If you have a combination of several learning disabilities, like I do, it is so hard to keep up with job responsibilities, directions on how to get something done or corrected, and everyday life. This is why it is so important for people with disabilities either visible or non-visible, (hidden) to obtain the help that is available to all of us. I’m hoping for State and Government services to continue important funding to help all of us that need assistance. Our elected officials and the general public, need to understand that disabled people are not lazy, we just need help, and we are proud and happy to do our share. We want to work, be recognized, and have the barriers and stereotypes to END!

Source of information: Various Google Searches

Until next time, stay safe and well!