Recently DDF has been going through significant change and has now partnered with re:think dyslexia.

re:think dyslexia is a global leader that will influence intergenerational change so adults with dyslexia are never left behind. Our mission is to create inclusive environments that enable adults with dyslexia to live healthier, happier, and more connected lives.

Dyslexia is a lifelong disability and it impacts our whole life from the school years through to adulthood. Those of us

with dyslexia can face higher rates of anxiety and depression because of how it can impact on a day to day activities.

Dyslexia can impact your mental health in a number of ways, including:

• education
• career wellbeing 
• financial wellbeing
• physical wellbeing
• social and community connections
• psychological and emotional wellbeing.

Not everyone who has dyslexia has problems in all those areas, or all at once. If you have dyslexia, you probably already know which particular area or areas are the ones you need a bit of extra attention.

It’s important that you identify the areas that impact on your mental health and where you need the most support. That can help you to decide what strategies you will use, what professional support you seek, and which people in your life you turn to.

Looking after yourself

• Exercise!! Sometimes I just can’t be bothered, but it does help to clear my mind and refocus.
• I’ve found playing team sports (though it can be frustrating) has helped to improve my coordination.
• Get enough sleep – this one’s so important.
• Work on my self awareness so that I recognise when I’m not managing and ask for help.
• Yoga, meditation and mindfulness strategies have all helped me.
• Anticipation is critical. When I have a pretty good idea of the areas where I’m going to struggle, I then make sure I have strategies (mindfulness activities or exercise are both great) to reduce my anxiety and stress levels when the problem areas come up. (And if I do better than I thought I would, then it’s a bonus!)
• Make sure I have people around that I trust; and talk about what’s going on in my life.
• Find a good counsellor or psychologist, ones who have a specialty in people with learning disabilities can be terrific. Talk to your GP for ideas.

Do the things you enjoy. I actually love reading and find it’s a great way to have some me time. I also love music. Focus on the things that make you happy, and use them to take some time out from the world.

Most of all remember to BREATHE. People with dyslexia are everywhere and you are not alone!

All the parts that contribute to your mental health and wellbeing are related, you can’t have one without

the others. Use strategies that work for you at each of these levels to help you to succeed and achieve.

If you are struggling at the moment, you can and should seek specialist help via:

• your GP
• Australian Psychological Society
• headspace
• Beyond Blue