A pediatrician asked, “Why should we worry about a kid’s reading problem when we have assistive technologies?” My answer at that Grand Rounds still holds today: A reading problem stems from a language problem. Even when the child is not reading, that language problem still affects her daily functions. Think of how much of your waking hours is spent processing language. When the child’s ability to function as a listener, learner and team member is compromised, her language problem eventually affects self-esteem and mental health.
The National Center for Education Statistics reported in 2022 that mental health was one of the top three most common concerns for both students and parents. Parents and teachers often complain that children with dyslexia, a reading problem, often forget what they were told. This is because they have difficulty processing language efficiently to retain it. Language is all around us: in the speech directed at us and others in the vicinity, in printed materials, on screens and signs. When we cannot process our surrounding well, maintaining a sense of control becomes challenging and sometimes overwhelming.
Thus, a language problem can affect mental health in myriad ways. Also, difficulties with language and reading can be noticeable in the classroom, leading to bullying and other psychosocial issues. Research shows that college students with dyslexia often show elevated levels of anxiety and depression.
Ever since Dysolve launched an AI program to correct this underlying language problem, we have heard from parents, employers, and even spouses of retirees. They are not just concerned about a reading problem. They all want improved mental health for the individuals affected.
Image by WOKANDAPIX from Pixabay
