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Is ADHD a learning difficulty?

Posted By : Administrator Sunday 13 Nov, 2016
Is ADHD a learning difficulty?

Written by Bina Nangia


I am often asked these questions in my job as special educator. ‘What is a learning difficulty?’ ‘What is attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD and ADHD)?’ ‘Is there any difference between them?’ Many people think that the two are similar, if not the same. However, that is false; a person can have one or both of these conditions. 


A learning difficulty is caused by a processing issue in parts of the brain that handle information that is auditory and visual. There is a gap between what you think and hear, and what you see or picture in your mind. The learning difficulty is the symptom of the condition, while the processing problem is the root cause of it.


On the other hand, ADD/ADHD is a chemical problem. The area of the brain called the pre-frontal cortex works like a speed controller. It sets the rate at which information has to be used. The pre-frontal cortex runs on a chemical named dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter. If there is deficit of this chemical, then it results in a short attention span, distractibility and hyperactivity that are typical of ADHD. This is because when the pre-frontal cortex does not work properly, the speed at which actions are carried out and the speed at which data is processed vary. Often, the brain can’t keep up with the high-speed demands of data and goes into search mode. It thrashes around, spends times here and there, unable to settle down and focus. This causes the person to be internally distracted and impulsive, resulting in a brief attention span and interrupted planning and concentration. Some results of such a frame of mind are more injuries, incomplete work and inability to stick to a task. 


Unlike learning difficulties that cannot be managed, much can be done medically for ADD/ADHD. However, this does not mean that it can be ‘cured’. Recognizing the academic difficulties that arise due to ADD/ADHD and formulating strategies go a long way in dealing with its emotional and academic aspect. In this way, when children and adults with ADHD are treated and given strategies to function, they do succeed. 


There is also another fact to consider. A person can have both ADD/ADHD and a learning difficulty. In fact, more than three quarters of people with ADD/ADHD also have a learning difficulty. So when ADD/ADHD is diagnosed, difficulties in learning also need to be assessed, and vice versa.


So while both ADHD and learning difficulties can cause interfere with academic progress, they are not the same. They just happen to interfere with learning and are different conditions, not two sides of a coin. It only means that with both conditions, people can reach their goals with support from parents, teachers and society as a whole taking secondary routes when you cannot take express highways to your destinations.


In order to better understand, accept and manage the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD, it is very essential to seek the help of a psychologist and/or psychiatrist, as they can be instrumental in prescribing medication and teaching strategies to overcome the effects of the condition. Through my experience of over two decades, I am well-versed with dealing with cases of ADD/ADHD. So if you think you or anyone around you is displaying these symptoms, feel free to reach out to me.


Catex Health is a large network of mental health experts who are available 24x7 for your support and will ensure confidential, dignified and empowering support for any sort of emotional distress. Ms. Bina Nangia is a member of our network. Click here to reach out to her or call +91 9911775626.


About the Author

Dr. Bina Nangia is a stalwart in the field of special education who is credited with paving the path for inclusive educational practices and remedial education programs for children with learning disabilities and other special needs. With almost 20 years of experience in the field, Dr. Nangia created guidelines and SOPs for setting up of resource centres and set the path for development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with special needs. As an expert and pioneer in the field, she has been associated with reputed schools across the country ranging from K.R. Mangalam to Welham’s Boys School to Mayo College Ajmer in handling Academic and Behavioural Issues for Children and Adolescents.