What Is Dyscalculia? Signs, Diagnosis, and More

Undiagnosed learning disorders can be one of the factors affecting mental health in adults. In India, 5.5% of primary school students report being diagnosed with dyscalculia, but many adults struggle with it as well. 

Yet, adults and caregivers have little information to identify its signs. 

Without understanding the various existing learning disorders, it can be hard to know when to seek help, or how to help others. Let’s learn about dyscalculia, a mathematics learning disorder that many struggle with.

Also read: Is Mental Healthcare Equally Accessible To All Indians?

Understand What Dyscalculia Means

Dyscalculia is a learning disorder, where individuals face difficulty in understanding number-based information and other mathematical concepts. Individuals may have trouble processing mathematical information and numbers. However, this does not because they are unable to learn. It simply means that their brain cannot process this information the same way as those without this condition. 

In simple terms, it involves difficulties in:

• Counting
• Remembering mathematical concepts, facts, or rules
• Identifying and understanding numerical patterns

Often, this mathematical learning disorder is referred to as ‘number dyslexia’, but this is an oversimplification. 

While dyslexia is specifically related to reading and writing, dyscalculia involves processing information. It goes beyond facing some difficulty in solving mathematical problems or writing in mirror images. Individuals often struggle to understand core mathematical concepts, such as how one amount can be less than another. 

Some individuals may develop acquired dyscalculia as a result of damage to the brain due to physical injury or medical reasons. In this case, it is no longer a learning disorder, but rather a side effect of a dysfunction in the parts of their brain that process mathematical concepts, particularly the parietal and frontal lobe. 

What Does Dyscalculia Look Like?

Some common signs of dyscalculia among children include difficulty in:

• Performing basic mathematical calculations
• Reading the time on an analogue clock
• Counting and comparing numbers or amounts

However, for adults, the signs of dyscalculia can look a little different. These may include challenges in:

• Managing personal finances
• Reading graphs or charts
• Performing money-related calculations
• Comprehending spatial awareness

Besides the challenges in understanding core mathematical concepts, people may also face difficulties remembering or understanding when to apply them. 

Without understanding what dyscalculia looks like, people may not know what they are struggling with. Not only can it feel isolating, but it can also be one of the factors affecting mental health among adults. Often, untreated learning disorders contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. 

Also read: How Will Therapy and Psychiatry Benefit Me?

How to Diagnose Dyscalculia in Adults?

With a better understanding of the symptoms of this disorder, it is easier to know when to seek professional help. Although online community groups and forums can be great sources of information, they are not meant for diagnosis.

If you feel that the above symptoms apply to you, please reach out to a mental health professional as soon as possible. 

Diagnosing and managing learning disorders among children is much easier as educators and caregivers can spot the signs early. 

For adults, however, it may take a little more effort. For a formal diagnosis, you will need to share your medical and personal history with your mental health provider, so that they can rule out any other condition. 

Also read: What Is the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Managing Dyscalculia Symptoms in Adults

Treating dyscalculia in adults may take more time and involve using strategies which compensate for various symptoms rather than curing them directly. A personalised plan can help you track your progress and adapt these strategies when necessary. 

While psychotherapy approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, can be effective in improving symptoms, it is not the only answer. Your mental health provider may also provide information about other resources, such as using technology, to help you manage this condition. 

Learning disorders can be challenging, not only in terms of the symptoms but also in how they make you feel. It can be one of the factors affecting your mental health, making you feel alone or lesser than your peers. With online community groups, however, it is easy to connect with others who share similar experiences. 

With proper support, however, managing dyscalculia can be easier. We’re here to help you start your journey.