SCHOOL STRESS: DIAGNOSING THE PROBLEM

Shari Pearson, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist in Durham, North Carolina discusses symptoms of ADHD and learning disabilities that could contribute to academic difficulty.

Whether your child is just adjusting to elementary school or coping with the transition to high school, there is just something about this time of year. Children and teens alike are coming home frustrated and struggling academically for a variety of reasons, including a learning disability or ADHD.

Signs that your child may have a learning disability:

• Difficulty with reading and/or writing
• Problems with math skills
• Trouble following directions
• Poor coordination
• Difficulty with concepts related to time
• Difficulty finding the right way to say something
• Inconsistent school performance
• Immature way of speaking
• Difficulty listening well
• Problems understanding words or concepts

Signs that your child may have ADHD:

• Difficulty remembering things and following instructions
• Trouble staying organized, planning ahead, and finishing projects
• Frequently loses or misplaces homework, books, toys, or other items
• Constantly fidgets and squirms, often running or climbing inappropriately
• Has difficulty waiting for his or her turn
• Often interrupts others
• Problems with personal space resulting in behavioral issues/peer conflict
• Inconsistent academic performance
• Difficulty with reading comprehension
• Seems to space out at school and can’t recall what he or she “learned”