I live with a rare condition called Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD/NLD), which impacts many aspects of my daily life. This neurological syndrome affects my ability to understand nonverbal cues, emotional expressions, and complex social interactions. It's a condition closely related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), and it also includes Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia) as one of its effects.
Here are some of the challenges I face:
- Difficulty understanding others' emotions, interpreting social cues, or connecting with peers' moods.
- Struggling to start or maintain conversations, collaborate in group settings, or adapt to social dynamics.
- Attention challenges, including being easily distracted or abandoning tasks when facing difficulties.
- Trouble expressing my needs, which can lead to frustration and behavioral misunderstandings.
- Cognitive challenges like difficulties with mathematics or problem-solving.
- Emotional struggles, such as anxiety and depression, which often accompany this condition.
Dyspraxia adds motor coordination challenges, making tasks that require fine or gross motor skills more difficult for me.
Because this syndrome affects many areas of my life, I kindly ask for patience, understanding, and empathy when interacting with me. Sometimes, I may need extra time to process things, clarify what I mean, or adjust to challenges. I’m doing my best, and your support means a lot.
My goal is to keep learning, growing, and finding ways to thrive despite these difficulties. Thank you for your kindness.