Many adults encounter difficulties in post-secondary studies such as university or college. In addition, some occupations require that employees must take certain tests to advance in their careers. Studies have shown that as many as 1 in 10 individuals suffer from a learning disability. However, until quite recently, it has been common for individuals with these disabilities to go undiagnosed. As a result, many people may have longstanding difficulties in academic and other types of testing situations that could be attributable to an underlying learning disability.

Some people become aware of the possibility that they may have a learning disability when their child is diagnosed with a learning disability or ADHD. Since there seems to be a fairly strong genetic component to ADHD and learning disabilities, it is not uncommon to see similar traits within family members. Oftentimes a parent learns about symptoms related to a disorder and begins to wonder whether some of their life-long challenges may be due to a longstanding, undiagnosed condition.

For these people, a learning disability or ADHD assessment can be life-changing. By understanding why one may have struggled for many years and that the challenges were not due to “laziness” or a lack of effort, years of guilt, embarrassment and shame can be undone. In addition to helping to re-build your self-esteem and self-confidence, the result of these types of assessments can help identify strategies to take advantage of your strengths in order to compensate for some of your particular challenges. In addition, if you are attending a post-secondary institution including the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University or SAIT, having a documented psychoeducational assessment with specific recommendations can assist you in receiving accommodations and resources to improve your ability to successfully complete your program. Similarly, if there are diagnosable conditions that impact your learning or ability to take tests, you may be eligible for certain accommodations or modifications for occupational-related tests and exams.