There are 4 million children under the age of 18 that have some type of learning disability, with
2 million receiving special education services. A learning disability is defined as an impairment
in perception, thinking, learning, organizing or remembering information. It can take many
forms and range widely in severity.
A learning disability shouldn’t be confused with a lack of motivation or intelligence. Learning
disabilities are neurological or genetic in nature. They’re more common than most people think
and a disability typically isn’t discovered until a child enters school. Even then, it may go
undetected. Young children don’t have the words or concepts to articulate the problem.
Children may have difficulty concentrating and with skills ranging from reading and writing to
speaking, spelling and math. The most common instances are dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia,
dysgraphia, and dyspraxia. Learning disabilities also encompass conditions in which individuals
have low vision or limited hearing. Depending on the condition and its scope, only one skill may
be affected or it may involve multiple aspects.
An undiagnosed learning ability can wreak havoc on a child’s life. They often feel isolated, even
among their family. They don’t have the social connections and aren’t able to enjoy the same
types of recreational activities as other youngsters.
Children may need special accommodations for learning. They’ll also have a specialized plan for
addressing their needs called an individualized education program (IEP). Professional counseling
can help youngsters in accepting their differences and relieving negative feelings about
themselves.
It's essential that appropriate intervention is employed as soon as the disability is discovered.
Many youngsters can reach third grade before they’re diagnosed and begin to receive services
through their school.
Unfortunately, prior to a diagnosis, children may be labeled as lazy, unmotivated or a discipline
problem. Doing so contributes to a child’s feelings of frustration, inadequacy, and low self-
worth. That’s when counseling with a professional that’s familiar with learning disabilities can
help children and their family.
Southcoast Psychiatric Services
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, relationship problems, or other pressures of life? Don’t suffer in silence. The doctors and therapists of Southcoast Psychiatric Services can help. Caring, compassionate, and completely confidential, our services are provided by highly-experienced, licensed, and board-certified healthcare professionals, dedicated to improving your health and wellness.
Whether you require medical treatment, counseling/psychotherapy, or both, we are happy to offer the best care available – at your convenience.
Call us anytime @ (561) 241-6628 Because you don’t have to suffer in silence.
