What Are Academic Difficulties?
Academic difficulties can include a range of concerns such as individual underachievement or learning disabilities, or environmental factors, such as bullying or lack of attention from teachers. These issues can affect students as early on as their elementary school years, up until their college years. The UC Berkeley College Of Letters And Science cites that students can also experience academic difficulties when they undergo major transitional phases in their life, such as moving to a new place, changes in their relationship with their family or loved ones, or a shift in their financial situation.
What Are Learning Disabilities?
In certain cases, academic difficulties can be the cause of learning disabilities. Learning disabilities are conditions that affect one’s ability to use or understand spoken or written language, compute mathematical calculations, coordinate physical movements, or focus attention. While learning disabilities do affect one’s academic performance and perception that they can do well in school, teachers and professionals can work with students who have received a diagnosis.
How Does ADHD Affect Learning In Academic Settings?
Did you know that there is research that shows that 30% to 50% of students with a learning disability may also have ADHD? ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders diagnosed during childhood, that lasts into adulthood for many people as well. With ADHD, people can have issues focusing or paying attention and struggle with impulsive behavior. As you can imagine, this affects a student’s ability to pay attention in class and focus on schoolwork. Students with ADHD can also be restless, fidgety, talkative, and even disruptive in class. In adulthood, this can impact one’s work life and productivity. Fortunately, ADHD can be treated with talk therapy and medication.
How Are Academic Difficulties Related To Mental Health?
While a number of students have diagnosable mental health issues, not all of these children and adolescents receive the diagnosis and treatment they need. It is reported that students who do not get the support they need for mental health issues are more likely to drop out. In the case of very serious mental health issues that are overlooked, it is reported that 9 out of 10 students who commit suicide have a serious mental health condition. In other instances, if a student faces too much familial pressure to perform well academically and their mental wellness and behavior are impacted, a professional could intervene.
When Should You Seek Help Regarding Major Life Changes?
If you or someone you know is experiencing decreased motivation, inability to focus, excessive sleeping or difficulty falling and staying asleep, isolation, feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, in addition to academic difficulties, it may be time to seek support. If you reside in California, Oregon, and New York seeking personalized psychiatric care, consider Dr. Cawkwell of PBC Psychiatry. Philip Cawkwell, MD offers a 100% virtual practice so that child, adolescent, and adult patients can all receive psychiatric care from the comfort of their own homes. If you want to request an appointment, fill out a brief consultation request to get started with PBC Psychiatry today!
