Scottish
Disability
Team
Please click on one of the following links, or scroll down this page to find the relevant paragraph.
This is a complex question with a number of complex answers. You can read more about what dyslexia is in Section 2 - What is dyslexia, or you can find a brief definition in the glossary.
The combination of information in your assessment report together with your own experience of difficulties and abilities in both your studies, and your day to day life, will help you understand the way in which you are dyslexic. There are many sections of this site which will help you to understand this complicated issue:
Dyslexia is widely known about, but often misunderstood. As a dyslexic person it will be important for you to have an accurate understanding of how dyslexia is for you. Knowing about dyslexia will help you understand your self and how you learn. The following links are relevant to this question:
The simple answer is that dyslexic people are dyslexic all the time, but we tend to associate being 'dyslexic' with not being able to do things, with our weaknesses and not our strengths. The following links offer more on this subject:
Other people may be similar to you, for instance, everyone forgets things, but it is the frequency with which dyslexic people show these behaviours that is crucial. Alternatively, the ‘other people’ might be dyslexic too!
Many dyslexic people worry that they will start using dyslexia as an excuse. It is important to discuss your worries with someone who can help you understand more about this worry and where it comes from.
This is a widely held belief, based partly on the fact that there are many dyslexic people working successfully within the creative arts. This suggests that dyslexic people have a great potential for creativity. However, in order for the creative potential to be realised, it must be applied and focused.
'Help' is not just about support when you feel you might be struggling with your academic work, it can also be about contacting someone who can help you to answer this question.
This will depend on what your needs are at the moment. Talk to someone who can help you to work this out. It will be helpful to find out what kinds of support are available in your institution.
No. However, difficulties with reading and writing can be evidence of dyslexia.
Many dyslexic people do 'fine' at college or university, but find that although their marks are good, it is still a stressful experience. In order to reach your full potential without becoming over-stretched, you may want to make use of the support available in your institution.
This is another question with many possible answers. A common reason for dyslexia to be overlooked whilst at school is that many dyslexic people develop sufficient strategies to cope with school. It is only when the extra demands of Higher Education are experienced, that the difficulties associated with dyslexia show themselves.