By Tim Aiello, MA, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CCSP
Clinical Director, Myndset Therapeutics
Dyslexia and dyscalculia are two learning differences that can often co-occur with ADHD, forming a unique intersection of neurodivergence. These conditions, while distinct, share overlapping traits and challenges that can impact academic, professional, and personal success. This blog explores what dyslexia and dyscalculia are, their relationship with ADHD, and how they fit within the broader neurodiversity framework.
What Are Dyslexia and Dyscalculia?
Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading, spelling, and writing. It’s not related to intelligence but stems from differences in how the brain processes language (Shaywitz, 2003). People with dyslexia often excel in areas like problem-solving, creativity, and spatial reasoning.
Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia is a lesser-known learning difference that affects mathematical abilities. It can make tasks like counting, understanding number concepts, and performing calculations more challenging (Butterworth, 2019). People with dyscalculia may have strengths in visual arts, storytelling, or interpersonal communication.
Both conditions are forms of neurodivergence, meaning they reflect natural variations in how the brain works. Rather than being “deficits,” these differences highlight the diversity of human cognition.
The Connection Between ADHD, Dyslexia, and Dyscalculia
Research shows that ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia frequently co-occur. In fact, approximately 30–50% of individuals with ADHD also have a learning difference like dyslexia or dyscalculia (Willcutt et al., 2010). This overlap is likely due to shared neurological pathways affecting executive function, working memory, and attention regulation.
Why the Co-Occurrence?
Shared Brain Differences: ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia involve differences in how the brain processes information. For example, individuals with ADHD and dyslexia may have challenges with working memory, which impacts reading comprehension and attention to detail.
Executive Function Challenges: ADHD affects executive functioning—skills like planning, organizing, and task completion—which can exacerbate difficulties in reading or math.
Attention and Focus: While ADHD can make it harder to sustain attention on tasks, dyslexia and dyscalculia add an additional layer of complexity by requiring more effort to process language or numbers.
Dyslexia and Dyscalculia as Neurodivergence
The term “neurodivergence” celebrates the unique ways our brains work. Dyslexia and dyscalculia are recognized as forms of neurodivergence because they highlight strengths and challenges beyond societal norms for learning.
For example:
Dyslexic individuals often excel in creative problem-solving and big-picture thinking.
People with dyscalculia may have strong interpersonal skills or an intuitive grasp of concepts outside numerical systems.
Understanding these conditions as variations rather than deficits helps reduce stigma and promote a strengths-based perspective.
Practical Tips for Managing ADHD, Dyslexia, and Dyscalculia
If you or someone you know is navigating this unique combination, here are some tips to foster success and reduce frustration:
1. Use Assistive Technology
For dyslexia: Tools like text-to-speech software or audiobooks can make reading more accessible.
For dyscalculia: Apps like Photomath or calculators with step-by-step instructions can support learning.
2. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
Both ADHD and learning differences benefit from chunking tasks into manageable pieces. For example, tackle one math problem at a time or focus on reading one paragraph before taking a break.
3. Visual Supports
Dyslexia: Color-coded notes or high-contrast text can improve reading comprehension.
Dyscalculia: Use visual aids like charts, number lines, or diagrams to make abstract concepts more tangible.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
It’s easy to feel frustrated when tasks are harder than expected. Remind yourself that these challenges don’t define your intelligence or worth.
5. Seek Professional Support
Working with an ADHD coach, tutor, or therapist familiar with neurodivergence can provide strategies tailored to your unique needs.
Final Thoughts
Dyslexia and dyscalculia are not just “learning disabilities”—they’re part of the beautiful spectrum of neurodiversity. When paired with ADHD, they create unique challenges but also highlight incredible strengths. By understanding these conditions and embracing a strengths-based approach, we can create a world where neurodivergent individuals thrive.
If you or someone you know is navigating ADHD, dyslexia, or dyscalculia, remember: you’re not alone, and help is available. Every brain has its unique brilliance, including yours.
References
Butterworth, B. (2019). Dyscalculia: From Brain to Education. Routledge.
Shaywitz, S. E. (2003). Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-Based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level. Alfred A. Knopf.
Willcutt, E. G., et al. (2010). Comorbidity of reading disability and ADHD: Implications for diagnosis and treatment. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19(3), 162-167.
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