If you’re close to someone who has dyslexia, there are lots of things that you can do to help their mental health and wellbeing:

• Listen to the children, young people and adults with dyslexia in your life. Listening is important to help us all to know that our thoughts and feelings matter.

• Learn – and teach others around you – about dyslexia and the many ways that it can appear and the sorts of things that occur alongside. We’ve all heard myths about dyslexia; correct them when you hear them.

• Focus on strengths. We’ve all got them!

• Work on coping strategies together to help build resilience. Help develop self-awareness – and learn when to ask for help before things reach a crisis point.

• Seek out the support that is needed and don’t be shy to ask for help – for you as well as them.

• Consider seeing a specialist. Talk to your GP about a referral when needed.

• At school, TAFE, uni and in the workplace, it’s important to provide reasonable adjustments to help everyone to do their best.

When you behave in these ways at home, at work and in the community you are providing a safe and supportive environment, not only for your loved one but for everyone who struggles with a learning disability. In a safe and supportive environment, self-confidence and self-respect can develop.

Sometimes, these steps won’t be enough. If it’s all too hard, you can seek specialist help via:

• your GP
• Australian Psychological Society
• headspace
• beyondblue