Mental Wellbeing and Neurodiversity

Mental health and issues with learning:

There is a significant overlap between learning difficulties and mental health, as challenges in learning can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. When a child has undiagnosed learning difficulties, they may struggle in school without understanding why, leading to frustration, feelings of inadequacy, and even withdrawal from learning. This ongoing struggle can contribute to stress and anxiety. Without proper support, they may develop negative self-perceptions that impact their overall well-being. That is why it is crucial to understand a child’s learning profile—identifying their strengths and challenges early allows for targeted support, helping them build confidence, reduce stress, and foster a positive sense of self. By addressing learning difficulties proactively, we can also support better mental health outcomes for children.

Neurodiversity, learning difficulties and emotional wellbeing:

Supporting the mental wellbeing of neurodivergent children, such as those with autism or ADHD, is essential for helping them thrive, and a key part of this is identifying any underlying learning difficulties early on. Tailored support will help them to develop confidence, resilience, and a strong self-image. Understanding their individual learning styles and challenges allows educators and caregivers to create an inclusive environment that reduces anxiety and frustration, promoting emotional wellbeing and a love for learning. By recognising and addressing learning difficulties with a strengths-based approach, we can empower neurodivergent children to reach their full potential and flourish in both academic and social settings.