What is it?

NVLD is characterised by difficulties in processing and interpreting visual and spatial information e.g. body language and facial expressions, visual instructions (such as maps or charts) and pictures.

One of the hallmarks of NVLD is the tendency to excel in verbal tasks while struggling with tasks that involve visual spatial reasoning or motor coordination. Someone with NVLD may have a rich vocabulary and strong verbal memory but may find it challenging to form mental images of things, grasp abstract concepts or engage in activities that require hand-eye coordination. This discrepancy between verbal and nonverbal abilities is a key feature of NVLD and can often lead to misunderstandings or underestimations of an individual’s capabilities. NVLD is often mistaken for ADHD.

Challenges

Due to difficulties in understanding and interpreting non verbal cues, social interactions can be particularly challenging for individuals with NVLD. They may struggle to pick up on subtle facial expressions, gestures, or tone of voice, leading to misinterpretations or social awkwardness. This can result in anxiety in social situations.
Like with ADHD, people with NVLD may struggle with executive functioning skills and tasks that require abstract thinking or adapting to changes in routine.

Benefits

Despite the challenges, those with NVLD can possess many strengths, which are often overlooked, such as great verbal reasoning and fluency, strong reading skills, rote memorisation and attention to detail . If these strengths are recognised and nurtured, strategies to manage the challenges can be adopted.

NVLD Project

We are partnered with The NVLD Project, in the USA, which is dedicated to raising awareness, building support, and creating helpful solutions for children, adolescents, and adults with Non-Verbal Learning Disability.

Catherine recently had the honour of giving the keynote speech at the NVLD Project’s annual fundraiser at the Century Club in New York.  In the speech, which you can watch right here, she recounts what it was like growing up with NVLD (and ADHD) and how her life changed after diagnosis.  

At the same event there was a panel discussion between the leading researchers into the condition about the latest research into, and current status of, NVLD – you can watch this here.

Due to technical difficulties during the event, Catherine re-recorded the speech the following day so it could be shared.

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