Why do I find it so hard to learn new things?

Question

I was hoping somebody might be able to help me out with this:

I think I may have a mild learning disability of some kind. I'm 23 years old and ever since I was a kid I've found it really hard to concentrate and retain information- even though I really want to learn. In school my mind would often drift off in lessons and I'd end up looking out of the window because I couldn't concentrate. Even now when I try to read a book I'll have to read a page four times because I can't take it in. I've been tested for dyslexia and I haven't got it (I'm good at english if that counts for anything) but my maths is appalling. I have an anxiety disorder and major depression which might be effecting my concentration (plus my medication)

I'm just so frustrated because I want to learn new skills and I'd love to go to university but I'd probably just end up dropping out because when I get lost I just give up. To add to my frustration there doesn't seem to be anywhere I can go for help. Where do I go to be tested? And for what? I don't even know where to ask for help. Is there anyone else out there like me?

Answer 1

I am so sorry to hear of your troubles.   I believe the medication you are taking is probably having an effect on your cognitive thinking skills.  Are you seeing a counselor to help you with your anxiety and depression?  Ultimately, you will be better off if you can reach a point where you won't need the meds, but you won't be able to alone, so if you're not seeing a professional in addition to the meds, make sure you do so.

Do you have learning centers where you live?  (You said "maths" so I'm thinking you live in England?)  They can help you with your study habits.  Also, talk to a counselor at the community college and see what they have to offer.  Above all, don't give up your dream of education.  If you need to read a passage 4 times, then read it 4 times.  Don't take more classes than you can handle.  It's better to take 10 years to finish school than it is to never start.  Good Luck.

Answer 2

I am exactly like you.  I too have problems with maths but happen to be good at English.  I went to university and I did drop out because I felt that I couldn't keep all the information in my head.  Then I realised what the problem was when I started vocational training at work.  It was interesting and because the training was vocational I got to put it to use straight away in a real situation so kept this new knowledge in my mind.  I thought that I might be Dyscalculic although what I have read does not perfectly fit and I have never been tested.  There is plenty of information out there on the web although most of it based on small children at school.  If none of this helps then at least know you are not alone, I know what it's like.