Can Dyslexia be cured?

It makes no sense to talk of 'cure' when dyslexia is not a disease. Dyslexics simply have different brains that find reading difficult, just as some of us find piano playing difficult. However our society places such great emphasis on reading and spelling that dyslexia can undoubtedly present problems - most of which stem from others' lack of recognition and understanding. However, many dyslexics (some of them featured on our site case studies), value the gifts which their dyslexia has given them, and so do some employers who understand the talents that dyslexia can confer.  There are many opportunities for dyslexics, particularly since the development of computer and film technologies has created a huge demand for programming, artistic and graphic design skills. One well-known architect's practice prefers to employ dyslexic people because of their spatial awareness and lateral thinking abilities.

Specialist remedial programmes can often help dyslexics improve their reading. In addition, other treatments designed to address the visual symptoms, phonological symptoms, or underlying biological basis of dyslexia may also help.

It makes sense to be very wary of the many groups purporting to offer treatments, or even 'cures', for dyslexia for a large, up front fee. These may or may not help (and their is little recourse if they do not). They are frequently based on little or no scientific research, and often involve treatments (such as nutritional supplements, coloured overlays, or intensive reading programs), which you can do yourself much more cheaply.

Although awareness of dyslexia is much higher than it was, it can still go unrecognised, with the result that the child can be stigmatised and accused of stupidity and laziness. This of course destroys a child's self-confidence, whereas knowing he's dyslexic is often a huge relief because he now understands why he's been having such difficulties.