I think I have dyscalculia. I never knew it was a real thing until now but I always failed at math every time and I am always late for stuff even if I don’t mean to be and my money management is not in control at all. It’s like anything that has to do with money or time or future stuff just gets all muddled in my head and I can’t even get my head around it. I am also not able to read a map or follow directions and I am always getting lost even when I think I know the way somewhere. I always knew there was something wrong with me but I just thought I was sort of stupid in some ways although I am very smart in other ways. I have never been able to keep a job since I am always screwing it up But it is nice to think of my having some real disorder. So what now? How can I know for real if I have this disease and what can I do to get better at all this stuff?
It is entirely possible that you live with a learning disability - the best way to determine that is to see a psychologist and get testing done. Regardless of what you do or don't live with it sounds like you lack organizational skills and I'm wondering how you are with self discipline?
Many of us in Recovery struggle with managing responsibilities. Being accountable and structuring your day, your routines, your schedule - these are things you don't need a professional for - a friend or family member can help you gain these skills.
Determining whether or not you have a disability is important because there are strategies that can help you to cope and work with it. Either way, working harder to overcome is what's needed. It takes a lot of humility to ask for help and it may be embarrassing - but it's totally worth it.
Penny Bell - Master of Counselling, Grad Dip Counselling, Adv. Dip. Counselling & Family Therapy, M. College of Clinical Counsellors ACA, M. College of Supervisors ACA, Reg. Supervisor CCAA.