Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can make it challenging to focus on a wide range of tasks, from schoolwork to conversations with others. But can ADHD cause problems with reading as well?
In many cases, yes. ADHD can impact reading skills and cause language deficiencies, especially in children. However, using the right strategies with the assistance of a skilled psychiatrist in New Orleans, like Crescent City Psychiatric, can help individuals with ADHD overcome this barrier.
Can ADHD Cause Problems With Reading?
ADHD is a developmental disorder that causes difficulty with attention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. It is very common, impacting more than three million people each year. This disorder often begins in childhood yet can continue into adulthood.
For many children, difficulty with schoolwork is one of the first signs of ADHD. This disorder can affect a child’s ability to absorb and retain information. But can ADHD cause problems with reading as well?
The Connection Between ADHD and Reading
ADHD affects many important neural processes, such as memory, retention, focus, and information processing. Disrupting any of these processes can inhibit a child’s ability to comprehend what they read. It can also interrupt a young child’s ability to learn how to read.
ADHD can lead to slower processing speeds, which means it may take an individual with ADHD longer to complete tasks or thoughts than those without ADHD. Reading requires individuals to process information quickly, especially when reading aloud. Slow processing can impact reading skills and comprehension.
Signs of Poor Reading Comprehension Due to ADHD
Other disorders can also affect reading comprehension. If your child struggles with reading, consider having them tested for dyslexia, language processing disorders, and auditory processing disorders to rule out other causes.
But can ADHD cause problems with reading? Definitely. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, look for the following signs that they are also struggling with reading comprehension:
- Difficulty spelling
- Slower reading speeds than their age group
- Preferring verbal to written instructions
- Ability to read aloud, yet trouble summarizing what they read
Meet with a psychiatrist to pinpoint the underlying issue affecting their reading skills.
Reading Comprehension Tips for Individuals With ADHD
While ADHD can make reading comprehension more challenging, individuals with ADHD can use several strategies to boost their reading speeds and understanding.
- Try active reading: Active reading with pens or highlighters can aid reading comprehension. Reading out loud can also invite individuals with ADHD to slow down and focus on each word.
- Reduce distractions: People with ADHD often become distracted easily. Remove other distractions from the environment so the individual can focus on reading.
- Understand the person’s unique challenges: While anyone with ADHD may struggle to read, the reason behind their difficulty can vary. Some individuals have trouble recognizing words, while others struggle more with comprehension. Learn the person’s exact challenges to better address them.
- Cater to the individual’s learning style: Some individuals with ADHD learn better when they are standing or pacing rather than sitting. Others excel with a special type of chair or reading aid. Individuals with ADHD may need accommodations to help improve their reading skills.
- Take breaks: Reading can be mentally exhausting for individuals with ADHD. There’s no harm in taking breaks to allow the mind to reset and refuel.
Schedule an Appointment With Crescent City Psychiatric, LLC
Can ADHD cause problems with reading? This disorder can impact several processes involved in reading, making it challenging for individuals to read aloud or comprehend the information they read. However, with the right cognitive training and treatment plan, those with ADHD can overcome their barriers to reading. At Crescent City Psychiatric, LLC, we provide specialized treatment for individuals with ADHD. We can help you or your child learn the strategies necessary to read fluidly and improve comprehension. Contact us today at (985) 249-1322 to schedule an appointment with an experienced psychiatrist, then continue reading to learn ”Does ADHD affect speech?“
