Life As An Adult with NVLD

Join us as we chat with Linda Karanzalis about what it is like to be an adult with Non-Verbal Learning Disability.
Linda is a current NJ Certified K-12 special education and former classroom teacher with over 19 years of experience in the field of learning disabilities. She is a founding member of CHADD in South Jersey and recently joined ADDitude Magazine as an expert contributor.

[@rebeccajones6609]

I am 67 yrs old. Found out at 48 yrs I have ADD and NVLD. Had to learn work-arounds on my own. Lots of depression and anxiety. Lots of minimum wage jobs. As an adult I went by intuition in all situations. Finally landed a good paying job at 48 yrs old. Have a house, a fair retirement. Never married, no children. After listening to this I know now why I kept to myself after my work day. Exhausting! Just recuperate that night to start the next day. Wish I could have had a mentor such perfect advise! Absolutely perfect

[@no_peace]

Thank you I totally relate to what you're saying

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I am so happy for you? What did you find that was a good fit for you?

[@heidiwangelin]

This is my story too except not the rebellious part. I'm a records technician now and slowly doing better with my NVLD. My 20's were pretty rocky with school and relationship wise. I got my BA in 6 years. Finding the right job took another 4-6 years after graduation. I often find i'm the one educating people on it. The blog that helped me the most to learn to accept it was Pia Savage's blog and Facebook groups. I'm part of an NVLD Zoom group which is helpful. I have ADHD, autism, NVLD, and anxiety.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

this is so good to hear!

[@starshiny3399]

Who else found this immensely comforting in quarantine? Thank you.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

yes, it was hard, did you find it was more familiar to you than for neurotypicals?

[@Bee-gq9xu]

This helped me SO MUCH I also have ADHD and NVLD and I could really cry this helped so much

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

you made my day, this is why I do what I do

[@gopolo147]

Well. This explains a lot of my life. Being the good, quiet kid who had good grades but could not connect socially to others, I rarely had to study, I would even read fiction during classes where teachers were speaking the lesson and still not have to study. But just always felt behind socially, wonder what the hell is wrong with me, why am I 33 but have the social skills of a 19 year old, etc. Crazy. I get kinda mad now about no one recognizing and helping with my social issues. I got bullied, was always the kid no one would pair with, they knew I was a big outcast, and looking back I was just so awkward. Anyways, this was very informative. Just got to the crumbs, spills, being CONSTANTLY SELF AWARE in social situations, gods I am so tired of just thinking all the time. Taken advantage of, black and white thinking (My therapist always got me on that) I was like always last to leave class. I work so hard on not getting mad when I have to do something different than what I was expected to do at work. I can try to explain my feelings but can't control the feeling and anxiety or make people understand... I am really good at thinking of new things, having ideas about how to do things or create things, but my drive, motivation, follow through, is just zero. I can focus for 12 hours on something interesting, but it takes an hour or two to slip into a rhythm for something I don't like. Lol I need a job where I can just look at products and have ideas all day on how to improve things or present it better, and someone else actually does the design work!

[@adaanderson9960]

I’ve never related to someone more thank you

[@placer7412]

lotta of this resonates.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@adaanderson9960 I am thrilled this helped you!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@placer7412 glad it helped!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@adaanderson9960 so happy it helped, Linda

[@CelticMagician]

How did I miss this video? In any case, I’m glad I found it now. I’m an adult with NVLD and I honestly found this comforting because I’ve been feeling very alone with my disorder as of late.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

you are not alone, take comfort in that, Linda

[@tabithatierney6512]

Just found out my daughter has NVLD. She missed 20 days of school last school year from refusing to go! It’s been a very long road so far we had tried everything and nothing has worked cause we treated her for adhd, odd, and depression! I’m glad we have the right diagnosis now so we can get her the treatment she needs.

[@vanessasilberman8241]

as an adult, what can i do to train executive functioning?

[@soul_vision_arts]

Very helpful video. More helpful than my parents ever were lol. I'm 29 and am finally coming to terms with what I've been suffering with my whole life and was hiding in plain site.

[@placer7412]

Ditto.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

aww, give you parents a break, they just didn't know, Linda

[@sarayoung9395]

Are you able to give an opinion on the likelihood of this disorder being added to the next DSM? I have NVLD. Thanks!

[@heartroll8719]

I have a structured day and it’s hard changing it. Like, I tend to wake up late and it seems like there is never enough hours in the day. My parents just say “Go to bed earlier.” For me, that’s easier said then done. I have so many other issues.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

yes it tax you, things are harder, have your parents watch the video, Linda:)

[@zusk8556]

How exactly does one go about in remediating their executive functions and working memory? I've tried tons and tons of supplements and herbs, exercise, meditation, brain training, learning exercises, etc. Nothing fixes the underlying problem. It never, ever goes away.

[@benjaminmeyer3107]

One could try cognitive remediation with a neuropsychologist. I think part of the battle is also developing different coping skills, like creating an organizational system, being observant of one's social skills, etc.

[@Morgan313]

www.pomodorotechnique.com is a good time management technique. I use this as a planner: www.amazon.com/dp/B078SFK3QD/ Olanzapine helps me with picking up on non-verbal cues. The idea is to create systems to support you so when you are not at your best, you can still function.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@Morgan313 I use the Pomodoro technique too, Linda

[@novastariha8043]

I went to community college span of 30 years trying to pass “math & science “ Requirements....”never did” . I cannot follow a dance partner or dance Instructions. Cannot use utensils 🍴 properly. Easily duped . At ripe old age 58 I was diagnosed NVLD After lifetime of failure struggle too find out my destructive invisible handicap Not recognized by DSM or disability act Is SHOCKING and Wrong!!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I am so sorry. If you are unable to make it financially fine a disability lawyer to help you get it. Don' give up, keep appealing, it takes time. Linda

[@HellenCW]

I have said and everyone says to my son “ you are going to be an attorney “ - he’s very literal.

[@rummugtheorc1675]

I just got diagnosed with NVLD, y’all just described me to a tee.

[@Forever4film42]

This is extremely informative, esp for an adult with nvld. The struggles are still real. Thanks Linda.

[@kristinecrowley8321]

I really enjoyed listening to you. You are very well-spoken, articulate and entertaining! My husband has adhd and RSD so that’s how I found you, but it sounds like you probably have a lot of interesting things to share. I hope you make more videos!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I am making them on my you tube page, Linda:)

[@heatherinsa8213]

I have found Seth Perler’s KZbin channel on executive function extremely helpful, both in regards to my child as well as myself. I encourage everyone to check out his channel if you’re in need of understanding and support for your child.

[@VDJhorses]

Linda, you are amazing! Watching you reminded me so much of myself. Stomach aches, misunderstanding others, feeling "out of the loop". The constant fear. I would LOVE to speak to you further - you are the 1st person who has helped me understand what the heck this IS, and how to deal with it as and NVLD / ADHD individual. You are articulate and well spoken! The explanation of this difference was relatable and accurate: this is an amazing skill and the unique ability to impart understanding and hope for those of us who are recently diagnosed and searching for answers. This talk presented the perspective of a professional who incidentally was the 1st person who did not just address the particulars "diagnosis", but a unique cognitive difference due to the way I recieve and give information. This compassionate perspective, complemented by personal stories is one of the most valuable in my search for information and understanding of why I am this "way". Thank you.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

thank you so much! the good thing with NVLD is we are well-spoken

[@Flyingtaco82]

You are lucky to have had supportive parents. My father would slap me (frequently) when helping me with math. If I had a dime for every time I was called stupid, I’d be a millionaire. I had my first baby at age 19. College took me 7 years. I also have anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I am so proud of you! Though all that pain and you made it through college, Linda

[@camellia8625]

So disrespectful of your father. I suspect I have NVLD too and was also treated like that.

[@jaimylisa5010]

@Linda What is your advice for NLVD in internships and jobs?

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

my book is coming out soon on that!

[@907-q7u]

I'm trying to get help finding a specialist or research center in regards to reversing an execuitive function disorder. I was diagnosed with ADHD, but skipped further testing for Autism. My learning disability limits me in communication and comprehension, I also have aphantasia and from what I can tell NVLD. I figured out how to reverse the learning disability and can access my intrapersonal communication that allows me to think to myself, learn, store and recall memories, communicate on a very deep level in ways that were impossible, before. I can finally feel emotions, read people, and communicate at length. There is a lot more. I'm trying to find a specialist in the southern California area, Ive exhausted myself trying to do this on my own.

[@thenvldprojectdevelopment5972]

Hello. For more information, please contact us at [e-mail] so we may better assist you.

[@wardarahman1757]

Can you please lmk how you managed to reverse it? I have the exact same issues with communication and comprehension. In addition to that, I have aphantasia as well.

[@star-qp4bi]

How can I get in touch with you about my self and my son. I have NVLD.

[@janedough2492]

I’m a teacher I believe my son has this. 19 years old. He needs executive functioning training. Social skills training. I need to be a coach. What do I do? Please help. He is failing community college and because of poor social skills he’s hanging out with the dregs of society. No street skills. Longing to be accepted. Making connections with anyone who reaches out to him. No boundaries. He’ll accept anyone into his life. Anxiety childish responses to our boundaries. 19 but acts like a 13 year old. Extended Family doesn’t understand why we don’t allow more freedoms but it’s because we know he can’t handle it. Poor judgment it’s horrible to watch. Lost a good paying part time job because he didn’t understand consequences, he’s impulsive.

[@camellia8625]

Sounds exactly like my son. Sadly I do not have an answer. All I can say is try and get a formal diagnosis and formal recognition of his vulnerability asap if he will cooperate. Once they are over 18 they are recognised as an adult and can say no to any professional input.

[@tabithatierney6512]

My daughter unfortunately had been promiscuous and I wish I would of been there more for her then

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

very common, looking for love and acceptance

[@sebastianninzatti]

thank you! from Denmark

[@12342087]

Im so glad I came across this video! I too have ADHD and NVLD I fell through the cracks had no idea what the teachers were talking about either. Teachers thought I was a brat didn’t care but I was just completely overwhelmed and lost. At 10 years old they new I had ADD and a learning disability but I just found out at the age of 44 thé learning disability is NVLD and I’m learning about myself.

[@Burevestnik9M730]

How did you learn from your mentor when you have (alleged) NV Learning Disability?

[@anitamccombs]

Thank you!

[@lillyperruccio7647]

i was diagnosed with this and i’m 17 along with some other shit and it sucks cus i relate to all the symptoms especially the isolation social awkwardness etc. sometimes i think my brain may be damaged but nonetheless i am going forward everyday and advice to those who have something similar as us never let it get in the way of your dreams we’re all capable of being the best version of ourselves, remember nothing in life that’s worth anything is easy.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

don't ever give up, you will get there, you are learning now and aware and you are only 17! kudos to you! Linda

[@freeandfabulous4310]

How can I speak with / consult with Linda? Would love to connect with her! She is amazing!

[@TheNVLDProjectOfficial]

Here is her info: ADDvantages Learning Center: Linda Karanzalis (856)-396-9135 // addvantageslearningcenter.com/contact/

[@vanessasilberman8241]

Thank you Linda. i m an adult that was not diagnoed. I can relate and feel less alone! woudl love the opportunity to connect with you

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

you are not alone vanessa! linda

[@essenceofpeace1446]

Wow. This is amazing. Im 45 and im living in a nightmare right now. My mom dealt with this stuff and is gone now. But right through from grade 4, i have had something, but the school absolutely refused to diagnose. I don't have high school and i dropped out twice and finished in grade 11 with no major subjects. There was all kinds of bullying and verbal abuse throughout the years that set me back years. My siblings get angry and everything. Now we are at the point of going for diagnosis.

[@camellia8625]

If people could readily remember to use the strategies they likely wouldn’t have a diagnosis of EF difficulty. So true about not being able to ignore weaknesses. As you say focusing on strengths is not enough.

[@dixieoskey9780]

I was 18 almost 20 when I found out that I had NVLD. We who have NVLD I found out that we are a rear case.

[@TC-ef2pp]

Omg dead on “ relationship with teacher” I discovered that early on..

[@markdennison3673]

Hi I have NVLD and this just helped a ton! Thanks for making this video. I didn’t know much about it until now.

[@tabithatierney6512]

I need to know how I can do these classes I need to learn more about this being a mom of a daughter with nvld

[@TheNVLDProjectOfficial]

Here is Linda's website: addvantageslearningcenter.com/

[@judybloom940]

I'm 73 and just got diagnosed 5 years ago! I got neuropsychological testing due to memory complaints. I could relate to so many things, going back to first grade when I wrote addition problems horizontally instead of vertically. Who know that was part of NVLD?? So much to learn!

[@planettes]

I'm 26 and my therapist told me I most likely have NVLD. This video describes so much... Thank you..

[@dixieoskey9780]

We are different but not broken. I draw when I’m in a classroom

[@juanrodriguez1003]

can learning an instrument help to improve this nvld problem

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

if you can yes! I still have been unable too, Linda

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I am just seeing all these comments now, I'm not a wiz online, so sorry!

[@sylviassuccess]

My son was diagnosed back in 2011 and I all I had was a website to help. It's been really difficult and the people around me didn't support my efforts. I began homeschooling him in 9th grade. I don't think I did a good job with him. He is in the Army now, but he hates it and wants to get out before finishing his tour and I don't want him to, I just want him finish and get out with benefits. Please help me help him. He is in complete denial now and thinks everyone is against him and giving him bad advice. How can I get him this help?

[@TheNVLDProjectOfficial]

Can you email us at [e-mail] so we can try to help you with resources

[@WearySecret]

We need help. I'm a parent of a nonverbal learning disorder and I'm 5th grade. She has been bullied so much. She was touched inappropriatly by a male classmate. Two years later she was subject to group peer bullying and mislabeling and victimizing. We did therapy to deal with behavioral changes due to the bullying. We are now in a new district and anxiety and anger are coming back. Our former therapist has moved on and we have limited resources. I'm dealing with Dysautomia/POTS. I'm scared for my daughter's mental health, safety, and future. She needs social skills. What do we do?

[@jeffreyfurtado3681]

Get your daughter involved in a sport that she would like and is team oriented. Ex. Hockey, basketball. etc. This will keep her busy. In addition, to practicing and meeting with other girls to play sports. This will help her develop social skills.

[@placer7412]

23:45 - wait are you saying chiropractors aren't quacks?

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

nope, not at all!

[@star-qp4bi]

I have NVLD and I think my son has the same thing, he is 9. How do I help him ?

[@Joe-qu1ww]

Get him tested to make sure and get a diagnosis then take it from there. This video should point you un the right direction of getting help

[@juanrodriguez1003]

can someone with nvld be successfull in college?

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

yes!

[@sheagaier7582]

OMG this is so true! I have NLD and have a masters in behavioral health. I couldn't find accommodations that worked for me and was only successful in classes where I had a strong relationship with my faculty. The only accommodation that worked for me was faculty preferences.. I was bullied badly as a kid and adolescent because of my disabilities. I felt fortunate that I had extremely supportive faculty in most of high school and undergrad. My problem was in grad school... I didn't have a supportive fieldwork professor or program director who were authoritarian and only cared about equality instead of equity (especially my fieldwork professor). I had a bad relationship with my program director and fieldwork professor because I never felt like i was listened to. Lastly, I am extremely slow when shifting tasks.

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

I hope you are doing well in your job

[@sheagaier7582]

@@NeuroDivergentPioneer Thanks! yes. i'm enjoying my job

[@roseb2105]

Your smart

[@roseb2105]

I hate myself

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

you are not alone, it's not your fault, it's a brain-based disorder, just like a heart condition or any medical condition.

[@juanrodriguez1003]

tell me how you finished college

[@heartroll8719]

I had to drop out of college because of it :(

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@heartroll8719 I was more afraid of being a nothing, it's in my book, coming out very soon

[@roseb2105]

how depressing someone just gave a like to my comment about hating myself...

[@Historian212]

They may have just meant that they feel the same way about themselves or that they understand how you feel.

[@celticcolleen3528]

I think they were showing empathy with you because they felt that way about themseves

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

that was most likely a mistake for sure

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

@@Historian212 i agree

[@courtneystewart8006]

I have ADHD and was later diagnosed with NVLD. I work with ADHD kids as a skills trainer and councilor and your comment about "I was so proud I made my lunch in the morning and then forgot it." Made me immediately cry. This is so helpful! Thank you!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

it is true, isn't it? I get it, Linda

[@tabithatierney6512]

Can you do tests to see if people have the NVLD?

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

go to a neuropsychologist, well versed n NVLD

[@no_peace]

Thank you!!

[@NeuroDivergentPioneer]

your welcome, Linda