True Reviewer

Dyslexia is a type of neurological disorder for which the symptoms are that the brain seems to be unable to properly interpret the signals it gets from the eyes and sometimes ears resulting in the confusion of symbols and sounds perceived. Dyslexia usually shows itself by way of difficulties in reading, spelling and converting common words into sounds. The condition is quite widespread with some 10% exhibiting symptoms of some form of dyslexia.

In the last 25 years we have learned a great deal about dyslexia, especially in the last 15 years or so. Dyslexia in children is now routinely screened for and detected in elementary school and before. We now know that children with dyslexia learn differently and need special training to overcome the difficulties they might otherwise experience.

Those of us who finished grade school more than 15 years ago had a rougher go of it. Most dyslexics got branded as “slow learners” or “underachievers” and were stygmatized by this type of label. They felt shame and embarrassment and tried hard to conceal their differences.

It is estimated that up to 95% of adult dyslexics are still unaware of their condition. A simple easy-to-take dyslexia test could identify their condition and change their lives for the better almost immediately.

Dyslexia symptoms in adults include problems with reading, a reluctance to read anything aloud, difficulties in transcribing messages received by phone and being employed in positions below what their intelligence and experience would seem to warrant.

Most of what has been learned about dyslexia comes from clinical studies, focussing on the problems of dyslexia. However, there is a positive side to dyslexia too. Dyslexic people seem to learn to think in different ways from non-dyslexics. They learn to visualize the whole picture rather than the details of the parts. Many excel in fields where this is important, fields such as architecture, graphic arts, acting and business.

This phenomenon is so common and the trend is so pronounced that such people are said to be “blessed with dyslexia”! There are many, many famous people with dyslexia. Notable and famous dyslexics include Whoopi Goldberg, actress and comedienne, Cher, singer and actress, and her daughter, Chastity Bono, Jackie Stewart, racing driver and entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson.

The key point for adult dyslexics is to find out whether or not they are dyslexic. If you have any of the possible symptoms you should get tested as soon as possible. The sooner you know that dyslexia is a problem to you the sooner these problems can be overcome.

Disclaimer: This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with dyslexia. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.

By – Steven Hinson