Specific learning disorder (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)
सीखने में कठिनाई
Learning disorders are not about intelligence. With the right teaching methods and exam accommodations, children do well.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Reversing letters, slow reading
- Poor spelling, messy handwriting
- Difficulty with numbers and calculations
- Low confidence, avoiding homework
Causes
- Differences in how the brain processes language or numbers
- Often runs in families; may coexist with ADHD
Risk factors
- Learning difficulties in the family
- Premature birth; ADHD
How it is diagnosed
- Standardised testing of reading, writing and maths by a trained psychologist
- Vision and hearing checks; IQ assessment to exclude intellectual disability
- Certification for exam accommodations where applicable
Classification: ICD-10 F81 · ICD-11 6A03
Treatment options
- 1Assessment and referral for psycho-educational testing
- 2Remedial teaching plan
- 3Certification for board exam accommodations where eligible
- 4Treating associated ADHD or anxiety
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Remedial teaching tailored to the specific difficulty
- Support for self-esteem and exam anxiety
Guidance for family
- The child is not lazy or careless; praise effort
- Work with the school for extra time, a reader/writer or oral tests where permitted
When to see a psychiatrist
- Persistent difficulty despite tuition
- Child is losing confidence or refusing school
- Teachers suspect a learning problem
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is my child lazy?
Usually not — the effort is there but the brain processes some tasks differently.
At what age can it be diagnosed?
Usually after formal schooling begins, around 7–8 years, though signs may appear earlier.
Does it go away?
It is lifelong, but skills improve greatly with support.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.