About Dyslexia

It makes no sense to talk of a '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 value the gifts which their dyslexia has given them, as 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 prefers to employ dyslexic people because of their spatial awareness and lateral thinking abilities.

Specialist remedial programmes designed to address the visual symptoms, phonological symptoms, or underlying biological basis of dyslexia are often highly successful in helping dyslexics to overcome their reading difficulties.

However, be very wary of the many widely advertised treatments, or even 'cures', for dyslexia usually involving a large, up-front fee. These may, or may not, help (and there 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 arrange yourself much more cheaply.

Although awareness of dyslexia is much higher than it was, some people still deny it exists and it can still go unrecognised, with the result that a child can be stigmatised and accused of stupidity and laziness. Of course this can gravely undermine his/her self-confidence. But being told he is dyslexic is often a huge relief to a child because he now knows that he is not stupid and he can now understand why he has been having such difficulties.

Each dyslexic person's difficulties are different and can vary from slight to very severe disruption of the learning process.  There is no total cure but the effects of dyslexia can be alleviated by skilled specialist help and committed learning.

On the positive side, the neurological anomalies that cause reading problems often confer exceptional talents on dyslexic people. Their visual, spatial and lateral thinking abilities enable them to be especially successful in artistic, entrepreneurial and practical careers.