Adults with Learning Disabilities  

	I am 22 years old and plan on beginning to learn in college. I think I'm dyslexic but I haven't been formally assessed. Should I go for an assessment before beginning my academic studies?
Yes. An adult who thinks he may have a learning disability should check this matter before beginning academic studies. This will allow him to receive help in his studies, recommend learning strategies, and accommodations on exams that will make coping with his studies easier. Frequently, adults who suspect they have learning disabilities went through a series of difficulties and failures in their school studies; therefore, it's a good idea to check and be helped to break the cycle of failures and frustrations and to succeed in the academic studies.
	I am 24 years old. I was diagnosed previously with dyslexia and currently I'm interested in studying engineering. I wanted to know if there are support centers for students with learning disabilities at different academic institutions?
Fortunately, in recent years awareness of the topic of learning disabilities and the needs of this population in institutions of higher education in Israel has grown stronger. Most of the academic institutions try to provide a variety of support services for students with learning disabilities. It's important to know that for a number of years the non-profit organization Leshem has been active in this area. Leshem is the association for the advancement of students with learning disabilities who initiated the functioning of support centers at academic institutions and supports them throughout the year.  In order, to receive up-to-date information on this topic, it's recommended to visit the Leshem website. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to make sure the academic institution you want to apply for does in fact have support services for your personal needs.
	I am a 23- year- old army veteran interested in improving by matriculation and psychometric exam scores. As a child, I was diagnosed with learning disabilities and ADHD and I received all of the accommodations that I was entitled to. I would like to know if the accommodations are still valid or if I need to be assessed again? I must note, that it's not easy for me. My mind escapes to all sorts of different thoughts when I'm learning and I don't understand what the teacher is saying. I'd be glad to come for an additional assessment and for accommodations on the psychometric exam. I think that without them I don't have a chance of succeeding.
As far as the policies of the Ministry of Education are concerned, an assessment that was conducted from 7th grade and onward is valid until the end of 12th grade and for improving matriculation scores until 25 years of age. However, in light of the difficulties that you describe openly and with great sensitivity, and in light of the fact that over the years there are many changes, we certainly recommend to refresh the assessment, especially considering the fact that you plan on taking the psychometric exam in the future. You can take the assessment at one of the Nitzan branches closest to your place of residence.
	I'm 26- years- old and was diagnosed in the past as dyslexic. I wanted to know if there is a way to be assessed through Nitzan?
You can certainly be assessed at Nitzan According to the guidelines of the Ministry of Education, the assessments required in this situation are: 1.       Valid didactic assessment 2.       Specific assessment in math 3.       Possibly a psychological assessment according to the accommodation recommended in math. We also recommend that you be in touch with a counselor at Nitzan for a more detailed explanation.
	I suffer from learning disabilities and a number of other problems I was born with. As a result of the problems and since my ability to work has declined, I decided to contact the National Insurance Institution (Bituach Leumi) to help me get back on my feet, both at work and socially. My question is if before beginning the process with Bituach Leumi, can you help me in some way or another?
You've made a wise choice! It's recommended to contact Bituach Leumi to receive assistance. You should ask them for an occupational-rehabilitative evaluation by a rehabilitation worker. With the help of the evaluation findings, it will be possible to guide you, both with regard to employment and socially.
	I'm 26 years old. In 1995, I was given an assessment for learning disabilities at Nitzan. I would like to know if I could receive the assessment, even though it was done through the school, and is it still valid?
Assessments done at Nitzan are saved for 7 years. So, unfortunately we cannot help you with this matter. Regarding the validity of the assessment, according to the guidelines of the Ministry of Education, an assessment is valid from 7th grade and onward until 25 years of age. Since you've past this age, you can go to the exceptions committee at the testing branch and search for information about the process of receiving accommodations at your age with an outdated assessment.
	I am 35 years old. Throughout my studies in high school and engineering, I always found myself studying twice as much as everyone else in order to achieve the same grades. Throughout the period, both in high school and my engineering studies, I always entered exams full of confidence that I learned all of the material, but usually I left disappointed. Not only did I not receive the grade I thought, but also I received a much lower grade, close to failing. Now I'm trying to get accepted to continuing education for mechanical engineering, and I once again need to take exams like the ones from which I absorbed so much disappointment. I'm very interested to know if this is something connected to learning disabilities or just fear?
Such a great investment in studying without proportional results, as you described, are similar to the signs of learning disabilities, ADHD, or both. Emotional factors like fear of failure additionally can certainly worsen the condition. We recommend not continuing to roll along in this cycle. You're already bright enough and big enough to decide on your own to break the cycle. In the first stage, you should do a preliminary check for learning disabilities or ADHD. It's not worth doing a psycho-didactic evaluation when there's a possibility that there is only ADHD. Here are a few preliminary sample questions for identifying learning disabilities in adults:  Do you get confused with time, miss meetings, and arrive late to appointments? Does it take you too much time to read a page in a book? Can you list all of the months of the year in reverse order? Was it difficult for you to learn the multiplication tables when you were in school? Do you mix up between right and left? Is it difficult for you to remember things you read? Do you hate reading out load or in public? Do you hate reading long books? Do you make mistakes writing checks?   For assistance in a preliminary evaluation for learning disabilities, contact one of the Nitzan branches closest to your place of residence.   In any case, for an adult it's very important to know what's stopping him, it's important that he seeks to know the answer, only then can there be hope for a new direction. A person doesn't need to live with a question mark like this hovering over his head. Studies from the last decade prove that in order to treat learning disabilities and ADHD in adults, the most important thing is the awareness of the disability; who am I, what do I have, who am I in contrast to my disability? These are two things that can be differentiated between. This is what influenced people and changed their lives.
	Is there a preparatory class for people with learning disabilities who would like to pursue academic studies?
Seminar HaKibutzim College, in cooperation with The Nitzan Association and Leshem, established the Nitzanei Mehut preparatory school. The school operates within the framework of the Seminar Kibutzim College, under the directorship of Ms. Naami Wormbrand. Its goal is to aid people with learning disabilities improve their learning abilities and to prepare themselves for academic studies. The school provides appropriate experiences and also emotional support, on a personal and group level.
	I'd be glad to receive a few details about the Nitzanei Mehut Preparatory School. Is there a special program for students with learning disabilities? Is an assessment that was performed in high school valid or do you require a new assessment?
The goal of the preparatory school is to prepare the individual to be an effective learner; "minimum investment with maximum success". In order to make "minimum investment", it's necessary to learn in proper ways, to be emotionally available, to be attentive and to understand what are your difficulties and strengths and how it's best for you, personally, to learn. In order to choose the correct learning direction and not some fantasy, it's necessary to go through a thorough process. The beauty of this process is that it's very intensive, centralized in a very safe and home-like place, with peers who understand the problem well and everyone understands the other.  Regarding your question concerning an assessment: at the preparatory school, almost any assessment is accepted, besides exceptional cases where the assessment isn't good on a professional level. As far as the validity of the assessment, in general, we accept assessments that were done within the last 5 years before applying to the preparatory school. In any case, you should clarify at the academic institution to which you want to apply about which assessment is required, since there are institutions that don't accept all assessments.
	How old can an assessment be in order to still receive leniencies on the psychometric exam? In other words, is an assessment that was done in high school enough? What are the leniencies that can be received on the psychometric exam?
An assessment is valid for 7 years. However, for the psychometric exam there is a special assessment. You should arrive with the previous assessments for an evaluation by the learning disabilities specialist who will decide if the assessments are enough or if a special assessment needs to be conducted. The testing accommodations depend on the type of disability. You can come for consultation at the Nitzan branch closest to your place of residence.
	How should one deal with acceptance exams at work? Should one tell the employer/tester before the exam about the learning disability?
We recommend that you seek vocational counseling on this topic with a psychologist who specializes in learning disabilities.
	Since the psychometric exams are based on knowledge and speed, I would like to know if additional time is give for students with learning disabilities, and if so, who do I need to turn to in order to receive the extra time?
The psychometric test does not provide extra time. Alternately, there is an accommodated exam for those with learning disabilities, which is computerized. Regarding additional accommodations, you should go to the Center for Evaluation and bring a valid assessment according to which the accommodations will be determined.
	I am 25-year-old psychology student. I've been diagnosed since 8th grade with learning disabilities and test anxiety. Before exams, I get really scared. It turns out that I study for close to two weeks for an exam and I when I come to the test, I don't remember almost anything because of the pressure. I tried a few homeopathic methods. What should I do?
We recommend that you receive treatment for test anxiety. This can be done with a psychologist who specializes in learning disabilities or with a personal coach.
	My 18-year-old son was diagnosed with ADHD. On his matriculation (bagrut) exams he received very high grades in Computers, Math, and English. The difficult subjects for him are History, Citizenship, and Literature. He took the psychometric exam in order to get accepted to Atuda (academic military program for outstanding students). He received very high scores on the section that requires mathematical thinking, but on the verbal sections his scores were quite low, which lowered his overall average, and he wasn't accepted. My question is, are there leniencies in admission for institutions for higher education? He wants to try to take the test again after the army.
The psychometric exam does not offer extra time. On the other hand, there is an accommodated questionnaire for students with learning disabilities, which is computerized. Regarding other sorts of accommodations, you should consult with the Evaluation Center and to come with a valid assessment according to which the accommodations will be determined.
	My 18-year-old son suffers from problems in focusing specifically. He's already taken the written exam for his driver's license twice and failed. He explains that it's very difficult for him. The question is whether there are any sorts of leniencies at the driver's license office for children who suffer from this problem?
1.       You can contact the Ministry of Transportation to check where there are courses with accommodations for people with learning disabilities. 2.       In a case where there is a valid assessment, you should present it to the Transportation Office in order to receive the accepted accommodations for people with learning disabilities.
	One of the most important subjects in my opinion, and unfortunately one of the topics which receives the least attention concerning people with ADHD, is the topic of driving. In one word - it's dangerous, and is likely to be very dangerous. How can parents of beginning drivers help them in this area? Should driving privileges only be given under the condition of treatment being received?
There is a connection between ADHD and traffic accidents. This topic is being studied today by the "Green Light Association" , which operates in the community with special projects whose goal is proper driving. As far as we know, awarding of a driver's license cannot be dependent on whether the driver receives some sort of treatment. On the other hand, it's important to arouse broad public awareness, like that which is done to stress the danger of alcohol and driving.
	Where can I receive advice or help for adults with learning disabilities that are having difficulty in day-to-day life and finding employment?
We know that adults with learning disabilities have difficulty at times in their daily lives, including finding a job. You can contact an occupational psychologist for consultation. It's important to make sure that the psychologist has experience in the field of learning disabilities and ADHD. Similarly, you can seek out coaching with a coach. Also with coaching, it's advisable to seek out a person with experience in the field of learning disabilities and ADHD.
	My husband is 50-years-old. Apparently, he's dyslexic and suffers from ADHD (he's yet to take tests to verify these conditions). As a result of financial problems at his place of work, he began suffering from depression 5 years ago, which occasionally worsens and is insufferable. He's under treatment of a psychiatrist, but until now, all of the medications that he's been given haven't helped. It should be noted; he's tried tens of types of medications but to no avail. We are in a desperate situation, and my husband has even lost his faith in psychiatric medications. Currently, we are trying to go through the evaluations concerned with ADHD and learning disabilities. I'm quite skeptical that this will help. It's clear to me that the situation is complicated. Do you have experience with this topic? What would recommend doing?
We know that ADHD with adults is much more prevalent than was thought in the past. Actually, some 60% of children will suffer from this disorder also when they're adults (likely with changes in the disorder's symptoms). Additionally, we know today that most people who suffer from this disorder will suffer from another accompanying psychiatric disorder, likely depression. On the other hand, depression is significant enough of a factor to cause a decrease in attention and focus as part of the symptoms of the illness itself. Our recommendation is to continue the evaluation process your husband began, not to give up, but it's advisable to consult with a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD in adults. Occasionally, it's a good idea to consider effective treatment of depression and then to conduct the evaluation for ADHD. Much success, and it's important to know that treatment is possible and in the end you'll find the way.
	I am 21-years-old and probably hyperactive or with an attention-deficit problem. I wanted to ask if there is a bachelor's program in psychology for students with learning disabilities. I want to learn a bachelor's degree very much, but I worry that I won't succeed at a university or regular college...I'd be glad to receive an answer as soon as possible and if there is another field I'd be glad to change this too...It should be noted that I want an academic program and not a course.
Unfortunately, in Israel there aren't institutions that are intended specifically for students with learning disabilities or ADHD. However, there are a few institutions that give special attention and assistance to students with learning disabilities; so, you should contact the different institutions and inquire about the different programs and assistance given to students. In addition, we would like to direct your attention to two college preparatory programs that exist. One is at the Seminar HaKibbutzim and is called "Nitzanei Mehut" and the second is at Tel Hai College. Similarly, we recommend for you to contact a counselor about your studies who can provide you with additional information. The Leshem Association for example deals with the topic of academic studies for students with learning disabilities.
	I have learning disabilities. I haven't taken a formal evaluation, but they did "something" in the 80's. Now, I'm a PhD student, but I still feel the difficulties. What are the possibilities? Am I eligible for leniencies? (Even though the master's degree I did without leniencies).
Learning disabilities are identified at different stages in life and the difficulties appear in different ways throughout life. It's possible to be evaluated even at an adult age to evaluate the existing difficulties and to consider giving accommodations if this is necessary. You are invited to consult with Rami Gertler, Head of the Diagnosis and Treatment Department at The Nitzan Association, who diagnoses and offers consultation for adults with learning disabilities.
	I am almost 23-years-old, and I want to learn something. It's difficult for me to know what because of my disability. I can't (learn) everything. (I) don't know what to do.
First and foremost, we recommend that you go for a consultation with a specialist in learning disabilities and ADHD. In this conversation, present your difficulties and get an idea of the possibilities that stand before you. It's likely that the next step will be an evaluation. Together you will decide which kind of evaluation is appropriate for you. As a result of the conversations and/or evaluation, different treatment programs will be recommended for you. At The Nitzan Association we'd be glad to help you in case you choose to receive our assistance. Lately, we have established a support group for adults.
	I am 23-years-old with learning disabilities and ADHD. I wanted to know if this influences my behavior at work? Do you deal with problems like these daily? Is there a solution besides Ritalin?
Learning disabilities are a "gift" for life. However, based on experience we see that the ability to cope gets stronger. The way learning disabilities influence the person changes, as the person becomes an adult. First and foremost, we learn to cope better with the different problems and to create ways of getting around many of them. Many people adopt for themselves a certain way of life that fits their different disabilities so that at times the weaknesses turn into strengths. But mainly, dealing with life is different than dealing with school, so that you don't have to deal with these difficulties at the same intensity and pressure as in school and childhood experiences. However, there are certain crossroads in life when learning disabilities and/or ADHD raise their head, mainly during periods of change and adaptation to new situations. A new job, studies, stresses and changes in family life, demands of a relationship, a move from one place to another, and so on and so forth; changes influence every person. With the help of proper preparation, a system of support of friends and family, and occasionally with professional help, these crises can be eased, dealing with them properly and even to leave them strengthened. At Nitzan, we've developed a service for the adult population, the Nitzan Plus Center for Adults that provides support for adults with learning disabilities and ADHD. The center provides, under one roof, evaluation and treatment services which help adults progress in one or more of the areas of life in which they need support and guidance. In recent years, the demand has increased for a body that will offer services for adults in the area of career planning includes the following aspects: work, study, free-time, and the community.
	How can I check if Ritalin can help me improve my academic achievements? I am 23-years-old and after the army. When I was in 5th grade, at school they gave me Ritalin and according to the teacher (then), my functioning and achievements at school improved considerably. I don't really remember much from that period except that I was a very problematic child at school:  in my successful days, I would go to classes and even pay attention a little, but most of the time I wouldn't even go to class; I would just wander around school doing nothing. I always felt that I can succeed more in learning, and I don't succeed to take for advantage of my abilities until the end. Short and to the point, I wanted to know if there's a chance that Ritalin could help me, and if so, who do I go to about this?
Assessments can be conducted at any age and it's important to assess the source of the difficulty so that it will be possible to treat and to decrease the frustrations that many people are dragging with them all of their lives...Evaluations for ADHD are conducted by psychiatrists and neurologists who specialize in attention-deficit, and also specialize according to age. It's important to receive the appropriate assistance, namely that of a specialist in ADHD among adults. Similarly, you should take in account that frequently the difficulties are intertwined, for example, learning disabilities and ADHD frequently appear together; therefore, a precise evaluation is very important in order to discern what is the primary difficulty and what is secondary. The difficulties that you describe are likely to be complicated and to include not only ADHD; therefore, a broad, multi-dimensional perspective of the problem is important. This approach can be found at a portion of the evaluation centers, such as the Multi-disciplinary Evaluation Center of The Nitzan Association. The evaluation process at the Multi-disciplinary Evaluation Center of The Nitzan Association includes introductory (intake) meetings with an evaluator, who accompanies the entire evaluation process, including the clinical interview conducted by a psychiatrist. In this way, the opportunity is given for professionals from different fields to have their impression and consult with each other, to consider the presence of other or additional difficulties that occasionally require other treatments or evaluations (a didactic evaluation for example). In conclusion, we want to stress that it's very important to evaluate and treat, so that you can maximize the potential hidden in you and to remove the obstacles to your success.
	How is it possible to know that there is, in fact, a problem?  I suffer from learning disabilities, am very tired, it's difficult for me to wake up in the morning for studies, and I always want to sleep in the afternoon. Do the learning difficulties affect my sleep?
It's true that sometimes tiredness is felt during performance of mental tasks for people with ADHD or learning disabilities. The description of difficulty waking up in the morning and feeling tired during the day arouses suspicion of a sleeping disorder. By the way, the need to sleep or decreased energy in the afternoon is universal and results from small hormonal changes similar to those of the evening.
	I'm approaching 50 years old, active and energetic, a high school teacher in computers, love work and my occupation. The problem is that I'm not able to concentrate for a long time, both when I'm reading a book at home, or rather trying to read, it takes me a long time to get to the end of the page, because it's hard for me to concentrate. And also when I finish the page, I basically don't remember what I read. It basically prevents me and causes me more serious concerns, to go learn and move ahead. I'm dying to learn, because I want to learn a degree. I learned teaching 26 years ago without a degree, just a teaching certificate and today I don't' see myself sitting down to learn, because it's clear to me that I won't pass any of the exams. Where do I start checking the issue? I have to note that also when I sit to watch a movie on television, the chance that I'll be able to see a whole movie without getting up in the middle is very weak. This goes without saying a movie at the cinema, which I haven't gone to see for a couple of years already because of my lack of patience. What should I do?
Good for you that you want to understand yourself and continue moving ahead! I think it's always possible. You describe characteristics of ADHD. You should seek out a specialist in this area, who is usually a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD or a neurologist. We, at Nitzan, have a Multi-disciplinary Center where you'll meet with a psychiatrist and be accompanied by an educator who specializes in evaluation and treatment of people with learning disabilities. Occasionally, an additional test is required which is conducted on a computer in order to verify the diagnosis of ADHD and to see which areas it affects. An additional section of the computerized test is conducted after taking Ritalin. This is in order to examine if and how to the pill helps you cope. In many cases, we recommend taking advantage of an additional treatment, sometimes remedial instruction, which is also available for every age, and sometimes "coaching" with a coach who specializes in this field and who will accompany you during your studies in case you need it and which you'll set together.