Struggling with Math? Could it be Dyscalculia? |

[@froggy8030]

My Dad is Dyslexic but very good at maths. I was a strong reader from P1 but have struggled life long with maths, reverting numbers and learning times tables was a marathon struggle. I have attended adult classes which helped a lot with learning but if I'm not using the skills constantly I get very confused. When it comes to measurements, if I cannot see an item I can't even comprehend it's measurements I have to visualise a thing to do it. Including actual sums. I tend to work out even mid level sums and formulas in extreme long hand which takes ages and can get totally lost in the middle. For some reason if a sum has the number 7 in it, I will get thrown off. If someone says naught instead of zero. I forget the rest of the number. I had a teacher at primary school yell at me in class that my poor understanding of maths processes caused another teacher to retire. I struggle to differentiate what a number represents over the thousands. I was later to speak but gave the impression of being fairly articulate from a young age. I actually had a very strong memory both short and long and a freakly strong interest and knowledge in popular music, culture and movie trivia, from a young age. My teachers said I had great creativity but my hand writing as a child was a mess. I had a habit of forgetting to dot my I's. I also struggle to define the mechanisms of punctuation, I use it but I'm never confident, it is correct. Almost as if I was never taught it. I learned to play drums as a teen and learned to read notes. However I no longer understand it. I was clumbsy and not great with space awareness. I was tested for dyscalculia in my 20's he gave me some sums I got a lot wrong, he still said I didn't have it based on that. Didn't even check any of the above. I have been struggling and overcoming with coping mechanisms, my whole life crippled by confusion as to whether I'm incredibly stupid, which I didn't think I was because of other things I could do. It has crippled my confidence all my life. Weirdly I am OK with basic Roman Numerals because as a child in the 80's and 90's, TV shows and films wrote their production dates in Roman Numerals and I loved reading the credits, seeing if I could beat the screen roll. However if I go to a Bingo Game. The minute they start shouting numbers I could literally have a panic attack it's like being chased through the woods by Freddy Krueger. At Primary School, they took me out of main stream class to do maths with an assistance teacher, they routinely took me out of class and tested my hearing but never seemed to come to any conclusions. By secondary school they had given up and just kept teaching the same first year low level maths to me year after year. I was top of my class. No one ever took time to teach me any of the more complex maths higher age students should learn. I was never given the chance to do physics or chemistry. I'm sorry this is so long winded but this is the first place I have ever found anyone interested in helping me understand why, I struggle the way I do, why being rushed counting or something as simple as measuring in the supermarket can cause me major distress. Spending your whole time struggling and trying to prevent mistakes and being mocked, as I'm sure many of you know is not an easy way to live and always leaves you slightly defensive or feeling vulnerable. Thank You for your time

[@nelsonfung3778]

Hello , i can explain to you what is going on .....math number sense can be built and need to be very careful with it . school is one of the worst place to learn math ....i assume they tell you to carry over and borrow methods right ? worst ways to do your calculations and it has lots of side effects . If you want help find me . We can have lessons for it ......i am a professional in building ppls number sense and how to give you the correct way to think in mathematics ........ your father probably would understand me more and ask him if he uses school ways to do his math . theres a chance he is not .

[@wintermatherne2524]

That kind of abuse would drive ANY normal person to Columbine!

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Thank you for sharing your story. It sounds like you have had a challenging experience with mathematics and have struggled with confidence because of it. It's important to note that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and having difficulty with math does not make someone stupid. It's also good to hear that you have found ways to overcome and cope with your difficulties. It may be helpful to consider seeking out resources or support specifically designed for those with dyslexia or learning difficulties in mathematics. You are not alone in your struggles and there are people and resources available to help.

[@Dr.Angie777]

This presentation was very well done! All of your questions created interaction that made your content much more meaningful! Thank you for a great webinar! Job well done! :)

[@catdemoness]

I am not diagnosed with anything but I always struggled with math, reading analog clocks, I can not giving directions to save my life, and struggling with my left and right, if I see a compass I know north and south but eats and west I got nothing. My grandpa (may he rip) was dyslexic but great with math and numbers, whereas I love to read and I am a fast reader not too good with reading out loud though.

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

It's common to have areas of weakness without a specific diagnosis. Dyslexia can present differently in individuals, and strengths in some areas don't rule out difficulties in others. It's important to address struggles and find strategies to improve them, with resources available to help with math, spatial awareness, and direction skills.

[@BobofMIB]

Crocodiles always confuse me, how is the smaller number eating the larger? I remember it by the size of the gap between the two lines.

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Thanks for your comment John and I agree these analogies or visual ideas help you remember do not work for everyone. If you find a way that works for you, then that's all that matters

[@azorablues]

Yes, Even Tho People Say I am not stupid I still do feel stupid because I know I will never be able to do things at a moderate speed like all my other classmates who are able to do things fairly quick and I have to take one whole period and bit of another period to finishing my open book math assignments and end up getting a 40s or 50s and just sit there completely bamboozled by something I have been learning for at least 2 weeks and still not get what im doing. This year is my 1st in high school and this semester which I have math they can't get my accommodations set up which is so annoying and then again my math teacher has the choice to do re takes but wont do them because his students from previous years would never do them I have had a talk with him but he is so stuck on that he wont even change his mind so im quit literally by myself feeling stupid and brain dead. and yes i study and pay attention in class but it gets me nowhere at all and i feel lik I'm going to fail math for the first year of high school. But I'm passing every other course with 90s but it's just math which I have a 64 in but it's going down pretty quick

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing in school, especially with math. It's important to remember that everyone has their own pace and style of learning, and struggling in one area doesn't define your intelligence or worth. It might be helpful to seek additional support, like a tutor who understands your learning needs. Also, keep communicating with your school about the necessity of your accommodations. For more resources and support, you might find Exceptional Individuals helpful. Check out their events and information at www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/exceptional-individuals-12111155769. Remember, your effort and persistence are commendable. Keep believing in yourself!

[@NathanMakerProd]

I have Dyscalculia. All the traits are there! But getting a diagnosis in the U.S., as an adult, seems all but IMPOSSIBLE! There are no "services" to help me. Most people seem to think I'm *making it up*! And it seems to be getting WORSE!!! Not sure if that has to do with my AGE (Similar neurological decay as Alzheimer's?), or because of the increased STRESS due to international virus and resulting social discord! -- Mine is more than just "difficulty with sums"! I lose track of TIME easily, don't understand monetary values, forget what day or month is, etc. The last 2-4 years have been really difficult!!! 😞

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

I'm so sorry to hear that you're having such a difficult time getting a diagnosis and support for your dyscalculia. It's clear that you're struggling, and it's frustrating that people don't seem to believe you or take your condition seriously. I can't offer any specific advice on how to get a diagnosis, as I'm not familiar with the process in the US. However, I can share some resources that might be helpful. The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) has a website with information about dyscalculia and how to get diagnosed. They also have a list of state-by-state resources that might be helpful. The Dyscalculia Foundation also has a website with information about dyscalculia and how to get diagnosed. They also have a list of resources for adults with dyscalculia. I hope these resources are helpful. I know that getting a diagnosis and support can be a long and difficult process, but it's worth it to get the help you need. I also wanted to address your concerns about your age and the stress of the pandemic. It's possible that your dyscalculia is getting worse due to these factors. However, it's also possible that you're just more aware of it now. Dyscalculia can be a very frustrating condition, and it can be easy to feel like you're not good enough. But it's important to remember that you're not alone. There are many people with dyscalculia, and there are resources available to help you. I hope you're able to get the diagnosis and support you need. Please don't give up.

[@lizrumble6454]

This is such a great webinar - thank you.

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

You're so welcome!

[@kdeggraham895]

thanks for the video mate. It’s great, I’m 14 years old in secondary school and I told my parents about it . This video has been so so helpful for me understand dyscalculia and viewing it from a perspective in which I may struggle with it. Don’t wanna self diagnose but I think I’m dyscalculic (is that a word?). My math teacher said l won’t be able pass National 4 (which is the lowest exam you can take here in Scotland.) if i do have it, do you have any tips of how to manage it or seek support? Thanks, Emma

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Hi Emma, it's great to hear that the video was helpful for you. Dyscalculia is indeed a recognized condition and affects many individuals differently. If you think you might have dyscalculia, it's important to seek support from a specialist, such as a learning disability specialist or a neuropsychologist. Here are a few tips that might help you manage your symptoms: Use visual aids: Visual aids such as charts, graphs, and diagrams can help you better understand mathematical concepts. Break down problems: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts can make them easier to understand. Practice regularly: Regular practice is key to improving your skills, so make sure to do math problems and work on your understanding regularly. Get extra help: Consider seeking additional support from a tutor or teacher who specializes in teaching students with dyscalculia. Utilize technology: There are many educational technology tools and apps designed to help individuals with dyscalculia. Remember, with the right support and resources, it's possible to overcome the challenges posed by dyscalculia and achieve your goals. Good luck!

[@shannonderderian4978]

I also have problems with dr.appontments I have gone so many times the day before the appointment or a day or two after missing my appointment.I mark my calendar.It drives me crazy 😵‍💫

[@Camila-tn9ec]

I'm finishing my degree in economics and I've always had doubts about it. I only have two classes left from another department and I've finally allowed myself some time to research about it because I was scared I was... I believe I'm, especially having studied five years in uni math-related classes, I understand the concepts and I can do things with a calculator, but ask me for a mental basic calculation and I'm sweating. btw, Im always lost in the city, I need the gps radar to know which direction im heading

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

I know that math anxiety can be a really difficult thing to deal with, but I'm glad that you're working on overcoming it. I'm sure that with your determination and hard work, you'll be able to achieve your goals. I wish you all the best in your journey, and I'm always here if you need any support. Thanks again for your comment!

[@arzooray3145]

Thank you for sharing love from USA ❤️😓

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Thank you for the message love from the UK

[@shannonderderian4978]

My Brian and numbers just do not mix .I hated math I felt so dumb when I was in school math class gave me a lot of anxiety.In the seventes and eightes.When I write numbers down I have to do to digest s or I write them backwards 😕

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Thanks for sharing Shannon

[@BlackopsUSN]

I think I may have this disorder and I am in college what should I do in class I struggle understanding equations and also I use my fingers to add etc. I struggle to do addition and subtraction mentally also counting money and calculating change mentally I struggle with.

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

It might be helpful to reach out to the college's disability services office or a learning specialist to see if they offer accommodations that could help you with your struggles in class. It's also important to communicate with your professors and let them know about your difficulties with math, they may be able to offer additional support or resources. Additionally, there are many online resources and tools that can help with dyscalculia, such as educational software and apps designed for individuals with learning difficulties. Don't be afraid to ask for help and advocate for yourself, getting the support you need can make a big difference in your academic success.

[@MedaHalmaciu]

Haha, the number I remembered was 23. I always do that even when copying a number from one side to another. I have to check several times to make sure it's correct.

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

It's interesting how we all have our unique quirks when it comes to remembering and copying numbers. Double-checking to ensure accuracy is a wise habit, especially when it's something you personally struggle with. It's always better to be cautious and make sure the information is correct. Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@charlieraphael2478]

Apart from all the above also have Aphantasia 🤓

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Your just showing off now Charlie :P - We have not done a talk on Aphantasia yet, but may put it on our list for next year

[@NaiduP-ec5ru]

I am not able to do maths since 8th standard till now, i have written my inter 2nd year exams but i failed in maths 2A and 2B both i can't even remember one problem i don't know why ,i have my supplementary exams in 3 days but still not prepared anything even i do the problems i am getting anything into my brain they look like devils 😭😭😭😭😭literally i don't know what to do now if i fail again in the supply then 1 year will be lost and the next min what happens i don't know😭😭😭😭😭when supply results release (please help me 😭😭😭)

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

@NaiduP-ec5ru I'm really sorry to hear you're struggling with math. It's important to remember that you're not alone and many people find math challenging. Here are a few tips that might help: Break Down Problems: Try to break each problem into smaller, manageable steps. Practice: Focus on practice problems that are similar to what will be on your exam. Ask for Help: Reach out to a teacher, tutor, or classmate who might be able to explain things in a way that makes sense to you. Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and try to stay calm. Anxiety can make it harder to focus and remember. Good luck on your exams! Remember, your best effort is what matters most.

[@giovannamoro8564]

Hello from venice italy

[@ExceptionalIndividuals]

Hello from London, Uk :)