Thriving With NVLD: Living With Nonverbal Learning Disorder (A Personal Story)

[@abbybell8851]

Hi everyone, I just wanted to thank all of you for watching, commenting, encouraging and sharing your stories! I feel so honoured to have had the oppourtunity to share my story!!

[@allisoneuph1]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I finally feel understood. It's so great to find another young female with NVLD.

[@markhirstwood4190]

i was born in oshawa but don't live there now. in my late 20s i was diagnosed with nld. i made a pinterest board about it. some things such as eye patch work and left side of the body exercises can help in ways.

[@ainekline377]

I have nvld too so I'm glad I'm not alone

[@baconboy222]

Nvld here

[@ainekline377]

@@baconboy222 I have it too

[@private9952]

I cry watching this video. I'm 44 and am just beginning to understand I've had learning disabilities that were never diagnosed until a few months ago. It has had a major effect on my personal and professional experiences my entire life. Abby I'm so proud of your honesty, strength, and self-awareness. I know from experience you must have self-awareness of how you learn, especially in the workplace, where employers and co-workers can be quite cruel to people who do not learn and think the way they do.

[@bradwelljackson6385]

Yes, I can relate to you entirely.

[@abbybell8851]

Thank you for sharing your story!! I admire you :)

[@deckofcards87]

@@abbybell8851 Thank you for coming foward and sharing this. I was diagnosed with NVLD at 11 years old. My parents divorced. My Mum tried her best but didn't know what to do about it, as NVLD was apparently considered obscure and untreatable. And my (emotionally distant) Dad got angry and denied there was anything wrong with me and neglected the responsibility. I'm almost 30 and the consequences of this have been depression and severe anxiety from struggling to socialize, keep a job or form strong relationships. I feel I've gone nowhere in life. Anyway, that's my sob story aside. Hearing about your experience has given me some hope and motivation to seek out treatment. Thank you.

[@estebanb7166]

I feel for you. I hope things are going well for you. Best

[@FayenMorval]

yes to the cruelty. 100% get it.

[@jaspercasella8643]

I have NVLD to, but for me texting feels like a welcome relief from having to read body language, filling in awkward spaces in conversations I also find starting conversations vary tricky so for me it’s nice to start with a text. Although I have had the “are they mad or not” problem with texting

[@wolfmage]

Me too!!!

[@stevensanchez1061]

I would rather talk to someone than text them

[@meredithm1352]

I have NVLD/ADHD too! I love this video. It is a real diagnosis and a real struggle, I hate that it isnt recognized in the DSM. Im now in school to work with people with disabilities!

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for your comment Meredith M. We're happy to hear you have found this video helpful. Wishing you all the best in school and working with people with disabilities.

[@robertpinto9217]

I have NVLD too. I was diagnosed when I was 17. Looking back on many moments in my life I found many times to be very frustrating including school and social situations. Having poor depth perception was a huge problem for me, it made me clumsy and I would have a difficult time walking I would bump into people at times or walk to closely catching someone's shoe in front of me. It was embarrassing to say the least. Also with being able to read body language I have found it tough though ad I have gotten older I have invested time in learning about emotional intelligence and I have scored high on my level of emotional intelligence. I have also taken several IQ tests and I fell in the range of having an IQ between 140-150. So if you have NVLD like myself know that I and others are out there looking out for each other. I would be happy to share my experiences with anyone.

[@r3dghok427]

What types of IQ tests di you take? People with NVLD can struggle with some IQ tests which involve abstract-visual-spatial reasoning and pattern recognition

[@rylieboll8488]

I have Nvld and ADD. My biggest issues are figuring out if someone is joking and math. It definitely has been a hurdle but I still was able to succeed. Now I’m a year ahead in math, but it took so much hard work. I can relate to her so much!

[@TechReviewTom]

rylie boll same, mindfulness meditation helps with the visual thinking needed for math.

[@katemorris6485]

Omg I am the exact same and I have major freak outs I just don’t have add

[@evab415]

Same! Question: do you have any experience with stimulant medication for the ADD? Does it work for you?

[@elinaq750]

This is great, I also have this (NLD), but can only find videos for little children, it is great to see someone my age and is almost mirror image of me, it brought tears to my eyes, also the stuggle of growing up and the long search of finding out what was "wrong" with me. Thank you very much for this video, I don't know you but it seems like you are a great person Abby, and I would love to meet you one day :) I know this is your story, so I hope it is okay that I write mine down here, I hope it helps others; When I was 6 years old, we began to learn how to read and write, I was slower than the other kids but extremely extrovert with a bundle of energy that I couldn't contain. My teacher thought I had ADHD and/or was autistic. She referred my parents to a center where they took IQ tests, turns out my visual IQ was below average and my verbal IQ far above average, even highly intelligent. When they showed these tests to my parents, my teacher flat out refused to believe it, no there is no way I was highly intelligent, even though it was the center that she referred parents to. My parents were extremely frustrated but did so much to help me with extra counseling, remedial teaching, and adjustments in school. Primary was a constant struggle with tests, failing things and talk about resitting grades. Primary school was frustrating, in any sense when finally I made the test at 12 and it was proved, that indeed I had NLD (or NLVD). I thought then, that it was over, until when I was 15 I applied to college (A-levels, they are like pre-university programs in the Netherlands). I had top grades and was pretty good in the interview, but they refused me because of NLD. (which legally, I found out after, was not in their right to do so, as I fulfilled the requirements). I was frustrated, angry and felt unjustified, and it was a struggle for me to find the motivation to apply to other schools in fear of refusal again. Later I did the same course in another college, they accepted me and I was overjoyed. Graduated from that course with an A* and send a letter to the college that refused me, saying that they shouldn't judge people with a learning disability, as with a little extra help, they might bloom further than any oter student. Now I am 20 years old, and while it was a relief to find out I see that not many of my friends understand it, I am now in college, and failing also partly there is no help given to me anymore at this age, when searching on the internet I can only find information and tips for little children, not (young) adults like ourselves, I think especially this has caused this video to make such an impact. and I hope in the future there is more that we can do. Thank you very much for this video, and I whish you all the best abby! (sorry for the long story XD ) xx Yleine Aerts If understood ever want me to make a video about this to raise awareness and help other people with their "journey" I would be more than willing to help.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Yleine, Thank you for reaching out and sharing your story. Although Understood is primarily a resource for parents of kids with learning and attention issues, much of our content is appropriate for an adult who is learning about their own learning challenges as well. We understand it can be difficult to find resources to help you but you're not alone. Here are some things for you to consider: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act does protect students in college. But the process of requesting and receiving accommodations is different than in high school. Here's what you need to know: www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-changing-schools/leaving-high-school/are-there-ieps-and-504-plans-in-college All colleges are required by law to provide certain supports and services to students with learning and attention issues. But some provide more than the bare minimum. This checklist can help you compare services as you look into colleges: www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-changing-schools/leaving-high-school/types-of-college-support-services You may also be interested in college programs that go above and beyond basic supports. Here's a list: www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-changing-schools/leaving-high-school/15-college-programs-for-kids-with-learning-and-attention-issues We hope this helps.

[@cherelyn5520]

Hey Yleine Aerts. Ik zou het graag met je hierover willen hebben. Wil je me een berichtje sturen als je dit ziet? @ [e-mail] 😘

[@jpblackhawk7151]

yleineping he yleine. I was just diagnosed with NVLD and I’ve been struggling so much lately. It can be very lonely and aggravating so I am looking to reach out to people who may understand me finally. Please feel free to contact me if you have any advice or support.

[@jaspercasella8643]

yleineping I also have NLD, I’m 13 and just started jr high this year. It’s nice to read your story.

[@abbybell8851]

Thank you for sharing your story! I really do admire you for being open!

[@joshuatelem8796]

Can you guys make more videos on NVLD?

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Joshua, thanks for your comment. We will share this feedback with our team. In the meantime, you may want to check out our Nonverbal learning disabilities section which has great articles, tools and tips that you may find helpful: u.org/29e2Xv2 We hope this helps.

[@congresscal8617]

I appreciate this so much it feels like there is finally someone I can relate to.

[@ni9cegirl]

Thanks for this. I have NVLD and ADHD and Anxiety and Aspergers. This really helped me to hear someone struggles like me. I feel so alone a lot of the time.

[@katemorris6485]

Katy Fusco I have it to I’m still only in middle school my first year but I have been diagnosed with it since second grade and it is so hard for me I talk so much but I’m a introvert I fell so alone even when I’m surrounded by people talking to me but if I ever meet someone like me I would be so happy and I get yelled at constantly I wish they could just make a cure I just can’t live like this anymore

[@katemorris6485]

I also have dislexia and anxiety constantly

[@marijegroeneveld7507]

I have NLD too and i always thought that i was the only one. But after i saw the video and the comments i finally realised that i am not alone. ❤️

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for your comment, @Marije! You might consider visiting our partner site, FriendsOfQuinn.com-it's a resource specifically for young adults with learning and attention issues. Wishing you the best!

[@kevinzhang3313]

I relate. It's like finding out God exists. You yourself are no longer completely unexplainable. You can understand more of yourself. 😏

[@katieanderson2260]

I can understand that. I have nvld to and having never met another person with it has made it feel like I'm the only one but this video and nvld groups on Facebook has shown me im not completely alone.

[@paytontucker189]

@@katieanderson2260 I have it too and same here I haven’t met anyone who has it either. I’m glad to see that I’m not alone.

[@jg1681]

You make me feel better about myself as a university student with NVLD, ADHD, and ASD. Thank you so much.

[@ainekline377]

I also have nvld. The first person who tested me told my parents that I was just bored in class. I didn't get diagnosed till I was 9. I'm glad there are others besides me with it and I'm not alone. Also I got held back in kindergarten because I couldn't understand what was going on

[@tabithatierney6512]

This is my daughter! It’s been a very emotional and frustrating journey! I’m hoping we can get her the help she needs! I also question myself if I have the same thing! I’m 39 now and may get tested too.

[@seanmurray757]

Hello, I would like to say that it is nice to read the commentary of those who share the same disability as me. Our disability is an issue that is not well known, and there is no one in the limelight who can represent us and bring those of us together to share information. Hopefully more videos like this one are made in the future.

[@randy685]

Thank you for helping to bring awareness to nld. I was diagnosed when I was little and I have trouble putting my experience into words. This video made me cry. Hang in there

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Devon Nolan, thanks for your comment. We're happy to hear you have found this video helpful. Please let us know if there is any other information we can help you find.

[@mathewdaniels2640]

Great video!! I love it. I too am ADHD and NVLD. I too have found that talking and writing are among my strengths. I am contemplating either teaching or becoming a journalist! You are awesome. Thanks for inspiring me.

[@abbybell8851]

Thank you for watching, I'm glad you were inspired :)

[@maritbeen2303]

Thanks for this video I have it too

[@jaspercasella8643]

Marit Been me 2

[@mothermovementa]

This is literally my story

[@AgoutiLexi]

What an inspiring young adult! This video was so clear about NVLD.

[@csf871]

Thank you. I have NLD also and this video put into words what I’ve been experiencing. You inspire many!!❤

[@maggiet644]

Oh my gosh! The texting thing hit the nail on the head for me. I have so much trouble inferring tone through a text message! So there have been many times I can't figure out if people are being sarcastic, saying something jokingly or being genuine.

[@WickedSapphira]

I am 31 and I was diagnosed with NLVD at 19. This is so validating! She reminds me of myself. It's nice to know that there are others like me. It makes me feel less alone. It's extremely frustrating because if I tell someone that I have NLVD, they have no idea what I'm talking about. I generally just tell people that I have ADHD. While it feels disingenuous, it's more easily digestible for people, and I don't have to explain anything. Also, I feel like NLVD is a very confusing name, since it makes it seem like we are nonverbal, whereas we are generally extremely verbal and struggle with nonverbal communication.

[@kaitlynnorris4975]

I’m an introvert with nvld, imagine how that works. I also have Anxiety, Dyslexia, and depression. No, I’m not self diagnosed. I have gone through the proper testing and everything. I could get diagnosed till 2 nd grade though so I just thought I was stupid.

[@desiraeparker8278]

I love this! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@camrynhauler3660]

I also have nvld and capd and a form of math dylexia and a language processing disorder i absolutely loved hearing your story loved this video!

[@austinholmes6951]

I'm going to be 25, in first grade I was diagnosed with ADHD. (Here in the US, it's called an IEP in math and science) which I believe they misdiagnosed me saying that I did not have NVLD, this shockingly opened my eyes to get re-evaluated. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Seriously. ❤

[@nathanv8535]

I have NVLD I have found success in school. I got my bachelors degree and I’ve been in the military for four years. It’s definitely a struggle living with NVLD but I was able to work through it. Nothing is impossible with this condition.

[@MrCurbinator]

Good for you man. Boot with NVLD sucks ass

[@hey5000]

Did you disclose that you have NVLD before enlisting?

[@zer0creative930]

I'm in this kinda space. People's true intentions, and being able to hide them or not. Theory of Mind is everything.

[@roseb2105]

when I tried to learn piano I found it helpful to lable the notes with letters cde…. the teacher must half thought I was crazy

[@NewEnglandPatriotsfan]

Excellent story Abby. I have nonverbal learning disability as well and know exactly how it is. My vocational high school quizzes and tests were a challenge no matter how much I studied. Had to retake things so many times and if I was lucky I'd pass by the skin of my teeth the first time. Had an IEP and that gave me a little more time on quizzes and tests that's it. Plugged away 4 school years and couldn't be more proud to be a vocational high school grad

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for taking the time to share this with us Music fan 11. We're happy to hear your IEP helped.

[@larasef6667]

Thank you so much for making a video about this

[@blancarosales7693]

I FELL THE SAME WAY, I hate math but I'm okay with reading

[@kb3gjp123]

The biggest problem with me is controlling my mouth. I’m actually very good at texting,but sometimes on dates I talk to much and or I can’t hold a interview like date.

[@jordiecornfield7038]

same! my NVLD makes talking in groups the worst ever

[@christina5289]

This is so beautiful. I couldn’t relate more if I wanted to. Thanks for sharing, Abby. Please keep sharing your story and being awesome. Best of luck on your journey!

[@mjade1673]

Oh my gosh i have both too! I haven't watched past the intro yet but i wanna tell you i am soo excited to👏💓. I just found out about this with myself i am almost 40 and im realizing i dont know anyone like me, this is such a relief. It makes me feel whole somehow, and hopeful 🙏ty !

[@abbybell8851]

Hey MJade!! I'm so glad this made you feel hopeful!

[@sirenia1241]

When you have all three. Autism, ADHD and NVLD

[@kb3gjp123]

Women tell me I come off as not confident. It’s all part of my NVLD. I wish people would just except my very kind and caring side of me and except I’m just a little weird in other ways, but they can’t. I sometime just say things I shouldn’t say.

[@blancarosales7693]

I HAVE ADHD, Nverbal Learning Disorder AND MILD ASTIUM OR Asperger’s ..

[@WatermelonLover]

Learn something new everyday! thank you for sharing your story!

[@kb3gjp123]

Also people with NVLD are naturally more attractive. I been told by many women I’m very attractive. When I talk to women on the phone they run after my caring and kind self witch is part of NVLD, but when I go on dates my mouth destroys the date. I dont stop complaining etc. I speak my mind. I ruined dates with people that I was so attracted too.

[@tanyaderksen660]

Thanks I was dignosed with nvld ,adhd or add too thought have Asburgars too can have both or not too it's complex not much support in community live here in feel often my own try help educate where I can trying contract with others do as well

[@msbrightside_]

WOW, My daughter is 18 now but very low IQ ... this video shed light on the way I was thinking about how to help her

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Ms. Brightside, we're happy to hear you have found this video helpful. You may also want to check out our Nonverbal learning disabilities section which has great articles, tools and tips: u.org/1eVpHxw We hope this helps.

[@micks336]

I have nld... I struggle not with non verbal movements from other people. Instead I struggle with my own non verbal movements. I'm the introverted version and I don't mean to stand far away from people and jump in fear when they brush up against me. Learning to drive take driving lessons from a old pro. It will save your life. Learn how not to get lost by using anchor visuals like stores and malls to find your way. Being aware and preparing beforehand for your possible errors is key. And another thing... learn numerology it gives meaning to numbers.

[@violeta6846]

Wow it might present different then for extro vs introverts

[@SuperAceshigh]

I've lived with nvld my whole life and I've always felt misunderstood.

[@ainekline377]

I have nvld too your not alone

[@jordiecornfield7038]

I have an nvld too :)

[@catluvrr95]

Same

[@jacklampin2411]

@@catluvrr95 yeah especially if people tell you you can’t do something like go to college because of it

[@mzshanti2012]

I can definitely relate to having this along with ADHD.. for me I never accepted it.. I don’t have issues with communication as Abby does but I do have issues with math and science, takes me longer to understand the formulas that

[@kb3gjp123]

People with NVLD can read a whole book,but can not explain the main detail of the book.

[@gurururuwarararara8164]

TL;DR This. All of this. Music, writing, math, communication. I was thought to have had ADHD when I was a kid, not paying attention in class, always bickering, had to transfer between a lot of schools. I was hyper-insecure about everything, and boy did the bullies know it. I fought a lot, had to come see the principal all the time. Mom almost lost me to the abyss of child "protective" services, because I was always, always in trouble. I was fat, short, and had a really light voice, like that of a girl. I also had somewhat androgynous characteristics (still do to some degree), like long hair etc, so I was REALLY uncomfortable and didn't know how to express it in any way. I didn't know or learn how to tie my own shoelaces until I was 14. I couldn't speak until I was 4, but by the time I was 6-7 I could both read and write and sing the alphabet song in my native language (Norsk). Math was never a problem until they decided to include the alphabet. +÷×-, I can do most of it in my head if we're talking "everyday" numbers. I sometimes like to say that I'm good at housewife math. But ask me to show you my calculations on a sheet of paper? Nope, sorry, can't do. I learnt it once thanks to a very, very patient teacher, but I'm sad to say his efforts were somewhat wasted. Then, when I was 15 I started to learn English like there was no tomorrow. Watched movies, read books, (also credit to Nintendo and Pokémon), changed the language settings on my social media into English, and when I hit my emo phase (still fat, unsure if relevant) I got a lot of friends who themselves were fringe characters or outcasts. Finally had some of that sweet social interaction at a level where I felt I could be who I was, and almost all of them were deeply passionate about learning English as well, so I suddenly went from not speaking or writing English very well, to then become rather proficient in it in about 1 year. So from 16 to about 18, me and my closest friends spoke English all the time with each other (with HORRIBLE fake british accents, mind you). Now at age 27 I'm picking up a fourth language, been practicing Russian for 4 months. I know I've derailed somewhat from my original thought but the thing is I thought for a long time I had ADHD, (I've been in and out of those shrinks' office since I was 11 but I never got diagnosed with anything, it was always this or that). I was confident I didn't have ADHD, but I suspected I might have Asbergers, so I checked. Now I should mention at this point, because of a lot of shit from school I started drinking and substance abusing at about 20, and kept my mouth shut for about 3 years, so I basically lied to my shrink all the time at that time. This of course didn't benefit me at all, and getting a diagnosis with those underlying elements is difficult, especially when they come to light. When I was 23, I finally learned that I had neither ADHD nor Asbergers, but NVLD. It was strange, but also somewhat cool, because now I understand much, much more of the events in my life. It has given me a LOT to reflect on, and now 4 years later I'm so happy to have found this video because you actually sound like you could have played me in a genderbended version or something, it's scary how much of this resonates with me 😂 And I totally agree on the irony, it's weird how I'm supposed to have difficulty communicating, and yet I love communication 😂 Also yes, I spent ages writing this, so if you actually read all of this, thanks!

[@dma93-ch]

interesting, I was under the impression, as apparently even lots of professionals are, that problems with interpreting nonverbal language was necessarily linked to ASD. Good to know it's not the only thing that can cause that.

[@gurururuwarararara8164]

I like the mandelbrot 😊

[@Blakesparling05]

I was diagnosed with NVLD at age 8 but I think I’m misdiagnosed and might actually have high functioning autism my parents don’t believe me though I only went for 1 assessment and was diagnosed straight away. My parents started to notice something was off when I was 3 and I had extreme trouble focusing even with simple things like eating I had a hard time focusing on.my parents then brought me to a pediatrician and told my parents it was probably either high functioning autism or add.At age 4 I was obsessed with any type of animation and would love drawing out characters(age 6 I started) of my favourite movies and sometimes even rehearsed some movies I never even seen only heard of such as sleeping beauty which I never even watched the movie I wasn’t interacting with other kids very well and would sometimes even get into fights with other kids at daycare in one fight the other kid even bite me and my mom had to pick me up early because of it.I loved the feeling of pressure and spinning around and would sometimes spin around in circles.I would also tighten my seatbelt tighter than normal because of me craving pressure.I started handflaping around this age,had little to no eye contact. I still sometimes handflap if I get too excited.at age 6 my parents separated and because of my needs not being met at my first school my parents moved me to another school.I didn’t adjust well to making new friends and even hit one of the teachers and one of the kids in my class out of frustration and not knowing how to interact with people and manage my emotions.I was diagnosed NVLD at age 8 my teacher noticed I wouldn’t interact with other kids like normal and would lack focus and often daydream I also was behind in my language skills specifically knowing how to communicate what I think and argue my point.Because of this my teacher recommended I get an assessment my mom got me one and I was diagnosed NVLD straight away and got an IEP and a request for a school computer.At age 10 my communication skills were still below average for my age and I wouldn’t engage in conversation except for with my one best friend and my family and even still they had to keep the conversation going .If I did I’d only respond with a basic answer such as if someone asked me how I was I would only respond with good and wouldn’t say anything else out of not understanding how to keep conversations going I’d also interrupt sometimes when I really wanted to say something and didn’t understand how taking turns talking worked.my teacher noticed I had low muscle tone and would often fidget get angry and aggressive such as yelling even shoving my desk violently sometimes.My school asked for another assessment but I’m currently waiting on my dad’s friend who’s a physiologist to do it (I’m so far still diagnosed NVLD) as I’m still waiting for another assessment and don’t know when I’m getting it done but I still struggle with some of these things such as lack of eye contact,daydreaming,focusing I still sometimes handflap or spin in circles sometimes if no one’s around I have really good hearing and according to my family I have recently been talking to loud but I don’t notice and have trouble with knowing how to adjust my pitch of voice.Thanks to my conscellor my mom got me I’m starting to improve my communication and can keep a conversation going when talking to family or my best friends with little to no help.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Lily - Thanks for sharing your story with us. It's not surprising that you have concerns about being misdiagnosed; NVLD and Asperger’s syndrome are confusingly similar in many ways. You might want to check out Understood's "Are Nonverbal Learning Disabilities the Same as Asperger’s Syndrome?" (u.org/3dW9cCN) for further information. We hope this helps! The Understood team

[@sunflowerskies-]

Thank you! I have this too. Your story is so helpful and inspiring. Keep on doing what your doing.😄❤️🦋🦋🌸🌈🌈🌈

[@Blyss1000]

I have been in living hell 55 full years of this since attempting recital 1964 with Dance Class four years old and just Unable to follow the steps and humiliation was my Mother’s response and that was only the beginning of Hell I diagnosed this past year by two non related burp psych tests. My horror is Knowing not in DSM ever ! So WRONG

[@bugga179]

I plan on asking my doctor about this...I have Turners Syndrome and have researched about it and found the girls tend to have NVLD. I have a feeling I do have it...I’m kinda nervous. I want to be a nurse and I always feel like I’m clumsy and in the way. I can’t drive yet and panic with vague instruction. I hope I can get some help if I do and feel more confident in my future.

[@tiahnnayasmine5959]

You are very well spoken

[@bugga179]

tiahnna yasmine NVLD tend to be well spoken. They have good vocabulary.

[@garandt0e88]

I have ADHD and a non verbal learning disability too

[@stephanieharrigle6430]

Ah I love this girl story

[@ainekline377]

Thank you for this I also have nvld and its been a struggle. Would love to talk more just so I know I am not alone

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi aine, thanks for your comment. You may want to check out this piece 5 Questions With Peter Flom, Statistician With a Nonverbal Learning Disability u.org/29gwu4F We hope this helps.

[@paytontucker189]

@aine kline I have it myself and I would also love some to talk too.

[@Melissa0774]

They say that when you have this disorder, you have trouble reading body language. But is it possible that in some people, this manifest as an unawareness of the body language signals you yourself are giving off, instead?

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for your question Melissa0774. Check out this piece which you may find helpful: Understanding Nonverbal Learning Disabilities u.org/295KD3V We hope this helps.

[@violeta6846]

Yes

[@stephanieharrigle6430]

I have a learning disability to and I relate with people that have disability like me and we all have learning disabilities but different ones

[@DjRiches]

damn that really opened my eyes

[@lukelengends3274]

I am a person with learning disabilities math and English skills in general, Never had a father, Still stuck with less and I’m struggling

[@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 NVLD with aphantasia. I figured out how to reverse the learning disability and can access my intrapersonal communication that allows me to think to myself, learn, recall memories and communicate on a very deep level. I can finally feel emotions, read people, and communicate at length. I'm trying to find a specialist in the southern California area, Ive exhausted myself trying to do this on my own.

[@bleedinggetsuga9583]

I just got diagnosed with this lol

[@Lexibellington]

I have NVLD too, diagnosed at seven!

[@Blakesparling05]

I was diagnosed at 8 but think I’m misdiagnosed as my symptoms match up more with high functioning autism and I only had one assessment and straight away was diagnosed NVLD

[@blackrose5559]

Hi Abby, I've noticed you live in the same area as me. I'm in my 30's and I'd like to get diagnosed properly. What tips do you have?

[@abbybell8851]

Hey Erin! For sure get a psychologist to diagnose you. Then read up as much as possible on whatever you're diagnosed with (Understood is awesome, and check out the NVLD Project too :)) Let me know if you want to chat more about it!

[@maddif710]

Why was Asperger's not the right diagnosis? I don't understand the difference.

[@stevensanchez1061]

I can tell how people are feeling but I can’t say it to them. Which only makes me confuse on what I should do

[@roseb2105]

I meant like nvld is not just a social problems. Wouldnt also impact understanding academics. Especially with subjects that involve visual spatial concepts such as geography. Language arts wich involve understanding the overall big picture of a literary work or reading between the lines ( skills that use the right part of brain) understanding the pragmatics of language such as metaphores etc ( versus grammer and rules which apparently would be nvlders strenth since it is more rule based) i am surprised no nvld videos on you tube have coommented about academic struggles

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for the additional information Rose B. We have shared this with our in-house experts for their feedback. Once we hear back, we will connect back with you.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Thanks for your patience here Rose B. You're right that NVLD can also cause academic issues. You might be interested in this video (www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/video-nonverbal-learning-disabilities-basics) or this article (www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/understanding-nonverbal-learning-disabilities) that cover some of the academic issues people with NVLD might experience. We hope this helps.

[@ximanarosales6479]

My sister has mMild Autism’. NonVerbal Learning Disorder and ADD. She takes medication for it and she does well wth them

[@melanie.vallejo]

this explains why psychologists thought I was autistic because I did use to talk before but at a certain point I stopped talking completely from ages 3-7 for so many years and now I talk fine. Maybe it wasn’t my right time to talk yet. I still get annoyed that I kept telling my family its a misdiagnosis because growing up I didn’t “act” autistic not even now I act that way, I think maybe I had anxiety which made me stop talking or some sort of nonverbal thing I had. The autism thing always felt like a misdiagnosis to me

[@Serenablacklady]

Sorry for what you went through

[@TechReviewTom]

I’ve got it too.

[@anniehoneycomb7105]

I’m diagnosed with NVLD, ADHD, Dyscalculia and good ole anxiety and depression. 🤪

[@paytontucker189]

I do too, I know how hard it is. When did you get diagnosed?

[@paytontucker189]

@Annie Honeycomb I didn’t get diagnosed with NVLD or ADHD until I graduated high school and I’m now in my second year of college. I wish I would have known sooner.

[@Blakesparling05]

I was diagnosed NVLD and with anxiety all at age 8 in one assessment and straight away I definitely have anxiety but think I might be misdiagnosed as NVLD because my symptoms match up more with Asperger’s syndrome

[@aprilwoollard3362]

Are there programs that help those with NVLD close in some of these gaps or is more of an understanding of how the brain works at this time?

[@kb3gjp123]

You don’t have ADHD. I have NVLD and people with NVLD are naturally hyper like myself, but at the same time I’m very organized. Sometime medicine does not work to keep me calm.

[@stephanieharrigle6430]

This is a good video

[@debrawehrly6900]

I wonder if NVLD is the same as Executive Function Deficits?

[@CourtneySmithA]

Seems 💯 percent normal!! 😂 unless we all have this... i never know the emotion when people are texting or talking 😒. Sometimes home environments can create people feeling “off” or different. But for reals tho... hecka normal!!!!!!!!! ?

[@chrissame]

She could still be very well on the spectrum. Psychologists mostly focus on the stereotypical manifestations of Autism. Autism is very vast and wide in itself, and everyone is different, meaning each person experiences varying degrees of symptoms,or not many of the traditional symptoms of Autism at all. It also manifests differently in girls and women,. I believe she is on the spectrum, as well as having the learning disability that she does.

[@selaraye5567]

Honestly, it’s all semantics. In the DSM I believe NVLD is under the umbrella of “ autism spectrum disorders “

[@chrissame]

Very good explanation. Thank you.

[@luckyj.ferguson6308]

This sounds very similar to Irlen Syndrome (Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome)

[@roseb2105]

how do does the subject language arts in school not be impacted by nvld? I mean the grammar should not be an issue beacuse nvlders tend to be good at language vocabulary and rules but reading between the lines in story or literary work understanding metaphors poetry getting into the authors mind and answering questions like why do you think the author wrote this how do you handle that in school?

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Rose B, thanks for your comment. We asked our in-house expert, Bob Cunningham and here's what he had to share: Language arts would almost definitely be impacted by NVLD, especially for those with social pragmatic language challenges. As you mention, questions about the author's intent would present issues. Seeing things from the perspective of each character, picking up social nuances hinted at in the text, and many literary devices could also present challenges that would impact comprehension of the text. Reading comprehension goals can be developed to address these concerns, and explicit instruction by the teacher can address confusion that arises. We hope this helps.

[@EmmysCoolVids123]

How could I be tested for non Verbal and dyscalculia and Adhd? Thank you.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

This article on how to find a diagnosis as an adult might be helpful for you! 💙www.understood.org/en/articles/who-can-diagnose-learning-and-thinking-differences-in-adults

[@EmmysCoolVids123]

@@UnderstoodOrg thank you so much I'll look into it

[@tudormiller887]

I've been diagnosed with Adult ADHD Combined. I may have NVLD

[@jillianlamontagne7167]

My story exactly it’s very hard for me

[@mothermovementa]

Same

[@basmaalhussaini131]

Hello from Mississauga Ontario . My son was diagnosed with speech delay and other learning disabilities at age of 3 as well . He is 7 and with the Covid situation And opting for online learning im not sure how I can help him .

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Basma Alhussaini, Welcome to Understood. We're glad you found us during this trying time. It sounds like you and your son have been dealing with a lot. Understood has a number of resources to help families deal with distance learning that you might find helpful. u.org/2DCWnxP And if you want to talk to other parents who are going through similar issues, you might consider joining the online community u.org/3cnrkDn Best, The team at Understood

[@loreing4583]

I just got diagnosed with both :(

[@Freedom53807]

Hi, thank you for sharing your story, it helps a lot of people to see that they are not alone.. there is a cure for that? something scientific or something that doctor is checking right now? it's interesting me because of the technology of today

[@UnderstoodOrg]

We're so glad you found this video helpful. There is still a lot that researchers and psychologists don't know about NVLD, and there isn't a cure. Some things that might be helpful are: social skills groups, occupational therapy, and cognitive therapy. You might find this article helpful: Understanding Nonverbal Learning Disabilities u.org/295KD3V

[@kleash]

She looks exactly like her dad.

[@mikegipson847]

Have you ever thought maybe there is a wide range of variability on the spectrum of "normal".

[@12342087]

Same ❤

[@geobigntall3830]

Hi ...I’ve been struggling with this for years. People don’t understand what it’s like. i fight it everyday I have to work extra hard as I am A carpenter. I get soo depressed and I’m even a married man and no one understands the daily battle. I play video games to calm myself. I forget all the time aa d can’t even remember to lock my doors in the house. I need help and I can’t find it. It’s almost like people don’t care. So I pretend that I’m just normal all the time. I don’t like it and I don’t like people because their all about themselves mostly.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Geo BignTall, thanks for your comment. You may want to check out the resources available through NVLD project: nvld.org/ We hope this helps.

[@Peace-d6r]

I feel like you can have both

[@brittjuh729]

Did you have therapy and what therapy helped you?

[@roseb2105]

what about geography like space? time zones?

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Rose B, thanks for your questions. Can you explain to use a little more about what you may be looking for? We look forward to hearing back from you.

[@intheskatepark]

I have this, and it's not that bad

[@dragonchamp1239]

Then u probably dont have it if it's not that bad to have TO YOU.

[@illigirl768]

I am not sure what the difference between autism spectrum and NVLD...

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Cat An, thanks for your comment. NVLD affects a child’s social skills, but not his speech or writing skills. You can read more about it here: u.org/2tewnDi We hope this helps.

[@rasgeet]

I have a 9 year old daughter who is diagnosed with non verbal learning disorder symptoms. How can I help her with her social skills? I live in Dubai.

[@UnderstoodOrg]

Hi Rashmi, thanks for your question. You may want to check out our Nonverbal learning disabilities section which has great articles, tools and tips that may be helpful: www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities Understood is based in the United States, so all our information on family rights and advocacy pertain to the educational and civil rights laws of the United States. International users are welcome to access our content and tools.

[@johannnefdt5474]

I am a developer and i have nvld it is possible

[@juanrodriguez1003]

do people with NLVD get married do they have successful marriages?

[@raventate0112]

yes! They can! I’ve read some things about people with NVLD and they can infact have relationships, get married and have kids.

[@richardblackmore9351]

I also got diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning disability, at the same time as I got the ADHD diagnosis, in high school. But I am starting to lose my belief in the NVLD diagnosis. I have noticed the traits are very vague and too easily manipulable. For instance, when I was a kid and a teenager I was told I had no sense of humor and didn’t understand jokes. In hind sight I recognize that isn’t the truth at all. I had no ability to articulate it at the time, but part of the problem is I am British/A,Eric an, and was raised in Germany. I later moved to the US when I was 12. My sense of humor was very European. British humor is very cerebral. There is a lot of subtext. A lot more than in American humor. American humor is very literal (I know that most Americans vehemently disagree). What I mean is, when an American comedian tells a joke, the joke is in the words. When a British comedian tells a joke, what is funny is not the words, but the idea being expressed. For instance, Eddie Izzard’s joke about the tiger in the subway. If you are looking for the joke in the literal words you won’t understand the joke. The words themselves aren’t funny. What Izard is doing is making fun of how British people communicate no verbally. To a hilarious extent. Another example is in Month Python Flying Circus, where they are climbing up a side walk, as if they were mountain climbing. A lot of my American peers don’t understand the joke. Much of Monty Python is nonverbal after all. The joke is doing something that has no purpose. Literally climbing a horizontal sidewalk. I have always preferred British humor. A bit odd considering NVLD people are supposed to not pick up on nonverbal stuff. Texting is a horrible metric as most people agree that it is the worst form of communication, for everyone, not just people with NVLD. A lot of the other traits were there. Difficulty tying my shoes, with math, etc. I’m on the fence though, as a lot of the most vital traits I either don’t have at all, or they are too convenient and everyone has them.

[@NewEnglandPatriotsfan]

I struggled really bad in trigonometry and know exactly what you mean. Some forms of math are just tough, but you CAN get through life with your learning disability. Even so many doctors, nurses, lawyers etc have them