Common Co-Existing Conditions with Dyslexia

Each dyslexia journey is different because its effects may be co-existing with these other conditions:

ADHD-A student with ADHD may present characteristics such as inattention, distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. According to the International Dyslexia Association it is estimated that 30% of those with dyslexia have ADHD as well, making it one of the most common coexisting conditions with dyslexia.

Dysgraphia-Dysgraphia is a language-based disability. It typically involves difficulty with handwriting, spelling, and sentence formation. Most often, dyslexia and dysgraphia occur together; both are neurological language-based disorders. Like dyslexia, writing requires activating the working memory for movement of each letter, sentence formation, and sequencing of ideas.

Dyscalculia-Dyscalculia is one of the families of specific learning difficulties. Most often, this disability affects the working memory as well. Generally speaking, this disability affects how a child acquires arithmetic skills. It is an impediment in mathematics with evidence presenting problems in number sense, memorization of arithmetic facts, accurate and fluent calculations, and math reasoning.

Executive Functioning Disorder-Students who have this condition have difficulty paying attention, remembering details and maintaining control in order to analyze, plan, and organize information to complete tasks. They may also struggle with self-regulation, time management, self-motivation, and metacognitive skills to assist with their language and thinking processes.

Speech/Language Disorders-Students may present problems with common speech/language disorders, specifically with problems in the articulation of sounds and the accuracy of sound production. They may also have atypical oral language development.

Anxiety-Many students with dyslexia exhibit symptoms of anxiety. Oftentimes the hardship that comes with dyslexia, their lack of self-confidence, and general fears of attending school and learning differently amongst their peers takes a toll on their mental and emotional health.

Seek a formal diagnosis from your physician and psychologist should you have concerns. ❤️