How to live well with dyslexia

Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty affecting people of all ages, impacting their reading, writing, and spelling skills. However, living with dyslexia doesn't mean you're unable to achieve success and happiness.

By understanding the condition, using available resources, and fostering supportive environments, you can thrive.

This guide explores practical strategies, tools, and insights to help individuals with dyslexia navigate daily challenges and opportunities.

Understanding dyslexia - what is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that primarily affects reading and language-based processing. It is not linked to intelligence, but instead relates to how the brain processes written and verbal information.

• Dyslexia affects up to 10% of the population in Australia, with varying degrees of severity. However, it is suspected that this percentage is higher, as many individuals go undiagnosed.
• It is often hereditary, with a genetic component contributing to its development.
• Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but its impact can be managed through strategies and tools.

The challenges involved with dyslexia

Dyslexia involves challenges in phonological processing, verbal memory, and verbal processing, often accompanied by difficulties with organisation and auditory processing. Here’s a closer look at these key areas:

1. Phonological processing

Phonological processing refers to the brain's ability to recognise and manipulate sounds. People with dyslexia may find it challenging to:

• Distinguish between sounds in words
• Manipulate sounds, such as blending or segmenting them
• Retain sounds long enough to decode or spell words

When sounds cannot be processed effectively, tasks like reading and spelling become significantly more difficult.

 2. Verbal memory

Verbal memory is the capacity to retain and use spoken information. Dyslexia often impacts two components of verbal memory:

• Short-term memory: Acts as a temporary storage shelf for information. If not reinforced, it is quickly forgotten.
• Working memory: Involves holding and manipulating information while performing tasks like mental maths, organising ideas for writing, or remembering instructions.

Weaknesses in verbal memory mean that individuals with dyslexia often have to exert much more effort to learn and recall information compared to their peers.

3. Verbal processing

Verbal processing involves locating, retrieving, and articulating language-based information. In people with dyslexia, this may manifest as:

• Word-finding difficulties, where the right word is hard to retrieve quickly
• Challenges in recalling prior learning, impacting both spoken and written tasks

Verbal processing speed

Processing speed refers to how quickly a person can take in, understand, and respond to information, whether visual (e.g., pictures, letters, numbers) or auditory (e.g., spoken words).

While processing speed varies among individuals, it is unrelated to intelligence and simply reflects the pace at which they handle information.

Those with slower processing speed may take longer to answer questions or complete tasks, struggle with multi-step instructions, and feel overwhelmed by lengthy or complex information.

This can impact skills like reading, counting, and writing. For instance, they might have difficulty articulating ideas clearly, experiencing challenges with word retrieval or verbal organisation, which can make communication less effective.

These interconnected challenges highlight that dyslexia is more than just difficulty with reading and writing.

It is a multi-faceted condition that affects how the brain processes and manages language, requiring tailored strategies and support to address individual needs effectively.

Signs and symptoms of dyslexia

Dyslexia manifests differently depending on the individual and their age, and the signs can range from subtle to more pronounced. Early identification and support can significantly improve outcomes, making it crucial to recognise the following indicators at different life stages:

Early years (preschool)

In young children, the signs of dyslexia may be less obvious but often include developmental delays related to language and early literacy skills. Common signs include:

• Delayed speech development: Children may take longer to begin speaking or struggle to articulate words clearly compared to their peers.
• Difficulty recognising letters and sounds: They may have trouble identifying letters of the alphabet, linking letters to their sounds (phonemic awareness), or learning the alphabet in sequence.
• Trouble with rhyming: Nursery rhymes and simple word patterns may be challenging, as they rely on recognising sound patterns.
• Limited vocabulary growth: Children may have difficulty recalling words, leading to a smaller vocabulary.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills: Tasks such as holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, or writing may be harder to master.

School-age (primary and secondary school)

Once a child enters formal education, the demands of reading, writing, and learning increase, often highlighting the challenges associated with dyslexia. Signs to look for include:

• Reading fluency struggles: Children may read slowly, skip words, or reverse letters and numbers (e.g., confusing 'b' and 'd' or '6' and '9').
• Spelling challenges: They may struggle to spell even simple words, often writing them phonetically or inconsistently (e.g., spelling 'house' as 'howse' one day and 'hous' the next).
• Difficulty understanding written instructions: While verbal instructions may be followed well, written ones might seem confusing or be misinterpreted.
• Trouble with sequencing: Tasks that require understanding the order of events, such as following a timeline or performing multi-step instructions, may be challenging.
• Avoidance behaviours: Children with dyslexia may show frustration, avoid reading aloud, or display anxiety around schoolwork.
• Mathematics difficulties: While not always associated with dyslexia, children might struggle with word problems, understanding maths symbols, or remembering multiplication tables.

Adulthood

In adults, dyslexia might present differently due to developed coping mechanisms. However, challenges can persist in areas such as:

• Organisation: Managing schedules, remembering appointments, or keeping track of multiple tasks can be overwhelming.
• Memory difficulties: Working memory, which involves holding and processing information briefly, may be a significant challenge. This can affect tasks like remembering instructions or recalling names and dates.
• Written communication: Adults may struggle with drafting emails, filling out forms, or completing paperwork efficiently.
• Reading fatigue: They may find reading time-intensive, exhausting, or require re-reading content multiple times to comprehend it.
• Professional challenges: Adults may avoid roles that involve heavy reading or writing, or they might feel anxious in workplace settings that require these skills frequently.

Treatment options and coping strategies for individuals with dyslexia

Dyslexia affects people in diverse ways, and no single approach works for everyone. However, there are a variety of evidence-based treatment options and coping strategies that can empower individuals with dyslexia to thrive in academic, professional, and personal settings.

These interventions aim to address the core challenges associated with dyslexia, such as reading, writing, and language processing difficulties, while also focusing on building confidence, fostering independence, and developing compensatory skills.

Effective treatment plans often combine professional interventions, like specialised teaching programs or therapy, with practical tools and techniques that can be integrated into everyday life.

Additionally, creating a supportive environment at home, school, or work is crucial for reducing barriers and ensuring long-term success.

The right combination of strategies can help individuals enhance their literacy skills, improve memory and organisation, and navigate challenges with greater ease.

These approaches aim not just to mitigate difficulties but also to help individuals with dyslexia unlock their unique strengths and abilities.

Building self-awareness and confidence

Developing self-awareness and building confidence are key steps in empowering individuals with dyslexia to embrace their strengths and navigate challenges with resilience. Consider the following:

• Understand your strengths: People with dyslexia often excel in creative, analytical, or problem-solving fields. Focus on these strengths.
• Set realistic goals: Break tasks into manageable steps to maintain motivation and reduce overwhelm.
• Celebrate achievements: Recognise progress, no matter how small, to build self-esteem.

Practical tools and techniques

There are a range of practical tools and techniques that can help individuals with dyslexia manage daily tasks, enhance learning, and improve communication effectively.

• Technology: Use text-to-speech software, audiobooks, and spell-checking apps to support learning and communication.
• Organisational aids: Digital calendars, task management apps, and colour-coded notes can help manage daily responsibilities.
• Specialised programs: Enrol in tailored interventions, such as Orton-Gillingham or Wilson programs, which focus on multisensory learning.

Building routines

Consistency is key for managing dyslexia. Establish regular schedules for studying, working, and relaxing. Structured environments can reduce stress and support productivity.

Supporting children with dyslexia

Supporting children with dyslexia requires understanding, patience, and a proactive approach to their unique learning needs.

Early intervention, combined with tailored strategies, can significantly enhance a child’s confidence and academic progress.

By fostering a positive and inclusive environment, both at home and in school, parents and educators can help children with dyslexia build on their strengths and develop the skills they need to succeed.

Improving reading and spelling skills for children with dyslexia

Children with dyslexia can enhance their reading and spelling abilities through explicit, structured instruction tailored to their needs. 

A highly effective approach is systematic synthetic phonics, which focuses on teaching phonemic awareness (the ability to identify and manipulate sounds) and phonics (connecting speech sounds to written letters).

What is synthetic phonics?

Synthetic phonics teaches children to link letters (graphemes) with their corresponding sounds (phonemes) and then blend these sounds to form words. The term 'synthetic' refers to this blending process, while "phonics" describes the method of teaching these connections. 

This evidence-based approach has been shown through extensive independent research to significantly improve literacy skills.

Practical ways to support your child

To develop reading and spelling, children with dyslexia benefit from:

• Completing a structured synthetic phonics intervention program
• Working with learning support teachers or experienced tutors
• Engaging with a speech pathologist who specialises in literacy
• Using decodable readers, which introduce letter-sound knowledge in a logical, manageable sequence

How to select the right intervention program

When choosing a program, ensure it is evidence-based and backed by independent research, rather than relying solely on testimonials from the program provider. This ensures your child receives proven methods that target their specific challenges effectively.

Time and commitment

With the right support and regular practice, children with dyslexia can make real progress in reading and spelling. Improvement takes time, effort, and a focus on their specific needs. Staying patient and consistent will help them build skills and confidence over time.

Inclusive learning environments

Creating inclusive learning environments ensures that children with dyslexia feel supported and valued, allowing them to fully participate and succeed in their education.

By tailoring teaching methods and fostering understanding, educators can help reduce barriers and promote equal opportunities for learning.

• Accommodations: Ensure your child has access to extra time for tests, oral instructions, or alternative assessment methods.
• Engaging materials: Use interactive tools like visual aids, hands-on activities, and educational apps that cater to different learning styles.
• Regular feedback: Provide constructive and supportive feedback to boost your child’s confidence.

Encouraging resilience

Teach children with dyslexia to advocate for their needs. Encourage them to share their challenges and request accommodations in a constructive manner.

Tips for workplace success with dyslexia

Dyslexia doesn't have to be a barrier to career success. Here’s how to navigate the workplace effectively:

Leveraging strengths

Many people with dyslexia excel in fields such as design, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Identify your unique skills and seek roles that align with them.

Workplace accommodations

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, Australian employers are required to provide reasonable adjustments, such as:

• Voice-to-text tools for written communication
• Flexible work hours
• Task allocation that leverages individual strengths

Advocacy and disclosure

While disclosure is a personal choice, informing your employer about your needs can foster understanding and support.

This network should include individuals who understand the challenges and strengths associated with dyslexia, offering encouragement and practical assistance.

A comprehensive support system not only helps address the specific learning needs of individuals with dyslexia but also fosters emotional resilience and confidence.

Building a support network

Dyslexia is easier to manage with the right support. Create a network that includes:

• Family and friends: Encourage open conversations about the condition.
• Professional support: Access psychologists, tutors, or occupational therapists who specialise in learning difficulties.
• Community groups: Join local or online dyslexia communities for shared experiences and advice.

How to support someone living with dyslexia: empowering parents, educators, and allies

Parents, educators, and allies play a vital role in supporting individuals with dyslexia by fostering understanding, advocating for their needs, and creating positive, inclusive environments.

Empowering these key supporters ensures they have the tools and knowledge to make a meaningful impact.

Understanding dyslexia

The more informed supporters are, the better they can assist individuals with dyslexia. Attend workshops, read up-to-date research, and consult specialists to gain insights.

Creating a positive environment

• Use positive reinforcement to celebrate progress
• Avoid labels or comparisons that may affect self-esteem
• Encourage a growth mindset, focusing on effort rather than outcomes

Collaborating with professionals

Work closely with educators, speech therapists, and other experts to create consistent and effective strategies for managing dyslexia.

Strengths of dyslexia

Many individuals with dyslexia excel in creative thinking, problem-solving, and visual-spatial reasoning.

They often approach challenges with innovative perspectives and demonstrate strong resilience and adaptability.

These strengths highlight the importance of focusing on abilities rather than limitations, empowering individuals with dyslexia to thrive in diverse fields such as design, entrepreneurship, and the arts.

Success stories: inspiring individuals with dyslexia

Many people live with dyslexia, including numerous well-known individuals who have achieved remarkable success.

These inspiring figures show that it is possible to thrive not in spite of dyslexia but often because of the unique strengths and perspectives it brings.

• Richard Branson: Founder of Virgin Group, who credits his creativity to thinking differently. Ever the innovator, Branson turned dyslexia into an advantage by focusing on his strengths and delegating tasks like reading and writing. He has colleagues read Virgin’s marketing materials aloud, ensuring only clear, easily understood messages make the cut—leading to stronger campaigns.
• Jamie Oliver: Academics weren’t Jamie Oliver’s strong suit, but he excelled with hands-on work, starting in restaurants at a young age. "Being dyslexic or having special needs is no excuse not to prosper," he said, reflecting on how his school struggles didn’t hold him back. Today, he’s a world-renowned celebrity chef.
• Keira Knightley: Acclaimed actress who overcame reading challenges with determination and support. Diagnosed at six, she struggled with reading until her parents made a deal: if she learned to read, they’d hire her an agent. Using the screenplay of Sense and Sensibility, she rose to the challenge over the summer and succeeded.
• Carol Greider: At just 25, Carol Greider became a pioneering health researcher, despite struggling with spelling and reading as a child. Her team discovered telomerase, an enzyme crucial in cell division with potential for fighting cancer and ageing. In 2009, she won the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine, crediting dyslexia and its problem-solving strengths for her scientific success.

Their stories show that dyslexia when embraced with a positive mindset, can become a powerful source of strength and opportunity.

Living with dyslexia and the importance of the right support

Living with dyslexia comes with its challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities for growth, creativity, and innovation.

By embracing your strengths, using available resources, and building a strong support system, you can navigate life confidently and successfully.

If you or someone you know is concerned about dyslexia, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional or educator for advice. Remember, early intervention and tailored support are key.

If you need help finding or keeping work while living with dyslexia, Disability Employment Services with APM may be able to help.

To learn more, head to our page about searching for a job with a disability, injury or health condition.

Resources and further reading

• Dyslexia - Better Health Channel
• Fact sheet: Signs of dyslexia in children - Learning Links
• What is phonological processing? - Sonic Learning
• Dyslexia challenges: what teachers need to know - Studying with Dyslexia Blog
• Dyslexia in Australia - Australian Dyslexia Association
• Dyslexia: what it is, causes, symptoms, treatment and types - Cleveland Clinic
• Strengths of dyslexia - Dyslexia Support
• Dyslexia in adults: symptoms, treatments, and causes - Medical News Today

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

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