Understanding learning disabilities

If you have a learning disability, or have an adult or child with a learning disability in your life, this article will help you understand what a learning disability is, what causes learning disabilities and how to get the right skills, care and support for them.

What is a learning disability?

A learning disability, sometimes called a learning disorder, is when you find it hard to understand things and process information. This affects everyday life and how you learn.

There are various types of learning disability, you can have a mild learning disability or a more severe one. All learning disabilities affect people for their whole lives, but there are always ways to cope. Lots of people with learning disabilities can live independently if they get the right support.

What’s the difference between a learning disability and a learning difficulty

A learning disability affects your IQ and your ability to process information. A learning disability is not the same as a learning difficulty, because a learning difficulty doesn’t affect your IQ or your intellect. So dyslexia, which only affects reading and writing, is a learning difficulty not a learning disability.

Find out more about dyslexia in this article.

What causes learning disabilities?

There isn’t one single cause of learning disabilities, they occur for many different reasons. Generally, learning d related to the brain’s development before, during or soon after birth, and sometimes in early childhood. Often, however, the cause is unknown. If you have another condition, like Down’s syndrome or autism, you could have a learning disability as well. You can read about life with autism here.

The Mix has more articles on learning disabilities and syndromes here. and a full article explaining what autism is here.

Living with a learning disability

Learning disabilities can’t be cured and you can’t grow out of one. However, a learning disability can be successfully managed, if you’re equipped with the right skills, and given the support you need.

Can I be independent if I have a learning disability?

If you’re living at home and you’re keen to move out, it’s vital you learn the basic skills to take care of yourself. This begins by talking to your parent(s) or carer, and considering the following areas:

Living alone – If you’re thinking about moving out, is suitable accommodation available? Will anyone be looking out for you? Do you need help with specific tasks, such as dealing with a central heating system?

Domestic duties – Are you able to keep the place clean and secure?

Preparing meals – Can you cook for yourself? Are you aware of basic standards of hygiene and safety? Do you need help with grocery shopping?

Money matters – Are you financially independent? Can you live on a budget and pay bills on time?

Getting around – Are you confident using public transport? Are you able to get yourself from A to B without problems? Alternatively, are you equipped with strategies for dealing with difficulties i.e. carrying a mobile phone with the number of someone who can help you out?

The prospect may seem daunting for some, but over time and with support it’s possible for anyone with a learning disability to achieve a degree of independence and freedom that suits them.

How can I cope at college or university with a learning disability?

If you have a learning disability and are still in education, it’s vital that you make your school or college aware of your situation. By talking openly about your needs, they can look into ways to tackle any difficulties you’re having. Learn more about support for disabled students here.

By becoming aware of your strengths and weaknesses, it’s possible to fulfil your potential in all areas of life.

Can I get a job if I have a learning disability?

Getting a job is harder if you have a disability, but it’s not impossible and lots of people do work. Learn what your strengths and weaknesses are and what you could work as. You can contact these organisations for more help:

Mencap has lots of information on getting a job if you have a learning disability.

The Shaw Trust helps people find work.

You can go to your local jobcentre and talk to them.

How to support someone with a learning disability

Be a friend – a lot of people with learning disabilities are bullied or left out, so one of the most important things you can do is treat them with respect.

Learn about their learning disability – the more you know the better friend you can be.

Be patient – they may take longer to learn things or understand things than you, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth explaining things.

With support, a learning disability doesn’t have to prevent you from achieving the same goals as anyone else.

Caring for somebody with a learning disability

Caring for someone with a learning disability means constantly reviewing the situation in order to remain aware of any source of help, encouragement and support that’s available.

Some people with learning disabilities may also have physical disabilities, and require a great deal of care. Others enjoy independent lives.

If you’re their main carer, see our article on support for young carers here. Mencap is also a great place to seek support if you’re caring for someone with learning disabilities.

Do you have any experience with learning disabilities that you would like to share? Let us know on our discussion boards.