The field of neuroscience is vast and complex – and the same can be said for its disorders. Among them, there is one in particular that often goes unnoticed: dyscalculia. “Dyscalculia what is it”, you may wonder. Throughout this article, we will unravel this condition, its symptoms, its causes, and most importantly, the best treatments available.

Dyscalculia, known as the “dyslexia of numbers”, affects a person’s ability to understand and manipulate numbers. This can have a profound impact on a person’s school, professional, and daily life. Like any other learning disorder, dyscalculia is not a sign of laziness or lack of intelligence. It is a legitimate brain condition that requires understanding, support, and appropriate intervention.

This is where the work of the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis comes in. In this article, we will share insights into the effectiveness of traditional treatments for dyscalculia, as well as the importance of the role of clinical hypnosis as an additional therapeutic resource. Furthermore, scientific hypnosis emerges as a powerful ally, capable of enhancing any health treatment when associated with evidence-based practices.

However, from understanding this disorder to its effective diagnosis and treatment, there is much to learn and explore. Therefore, we invite you to continue reading and discover how clinical hypnosis can be a valuable tool for those suffering from dyscalculia.

Understanding Dyscalculia: Definition and Symptoms

When we ask ourselves: dyscalculia what is it, we encounter a little-known condition that has a significant impact on the lives of many people. Dyscalculia is a specific learning difficulty in the area of mathematics. People with dyscalculia may have difficulty understanding numbers, learning how to count, learning math facts, among others.

This learning disorder is more than just having trouble with math. Symptoms may include: difficulty understanding time concepts, problems with differentiating right from left, difficulty dealing with money, and even fear of math activities.

Often, dyscalculia is diagnosed only when the child reaches school and begins to learn mathematics in an academic environment. However, there are signs that can be noticed much earlier. For example, young children may have difficulty learning to count, differentiate sizes, or even identify patterns.

Furthermore, each affected individual may have different symptoms. For some, the difficulty may be in performing mathematical calculations, while others may have problems understanding abstract mathematical concepts. However, the most common is a combination of problems in different areas. Fully understanding dyscalculia and its symptoms is the first step in helping those dealing with this condition.

Causes of Dyscalculia: Genetics and Environmental Factors

Dyscalculia, being a learning disorder, has its causes associated with genetics and environmental factors. Regarding genetics, studies indicate that dyscalculia can be hereditary. If a child has a parent with dyscalculia, their chances of also developing the disorder are increased.

On the other hand, environmental factors are also crucial. Here, it is worth highlighting the pedagogical and social aspects. A child in a learning environment that does not recognize and adapt to their individual needs, or that suffers excessive pressure for academic performance, may have an increased risk of dyscalculia. Furthermore, situations of family stress, neglect, or abuse can contribute to the onset of the disorder.

But it is important to remember: although genetics and the environment can influence, each case is unique. A careful evaluation is essential to understand the specific causes in each individual. This evaluation will enable more effective treatment.

Finally, it is essential to understand that a person with dyscalculia is not “lazy” or “inattentive”. They are dealing with a real challenge and need adequate support to overcome it.

Types of Dyscalculia and Their Specific Characteristics

Dyscalculia, despite being unique, presents variations, being divided into some main types, each with specific characteristics. Knowledge of these types helps in identifying the variant of the disorder that the person may have and in defining the most appropriate treatment path.

The first type is verbal dyscalculia. Here, the individual has difficulty especially in identifying mathematical words or numerical concepts transmitted verbally. Next comes practical dyscalculia, in which the person has problems counting physical objects.

There is also ideognostic dyscalculia. In this case, the challenge is in understanding and manipulating abstract number concepts. In operational dyscalculia, there is difficulty in performing mathematical operations and calculations.

Another type is graphic dyscalculia, where the problem lies in writing numbers and equations. And finally, lexical dyscalculia, which is the difficulty in reading numbers or mathematical equations.

It is important to remember that dyscalculia is a complex disorder and these categories are not strictly separate. A person may exhibit characteristics of more than one type of dyscalculia. This reinforces the need for an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.

Diagnosis of Dyscalculia: Procedures and Difficulties

Imagining dyscalculia what it is and how to diagnose it can be complex, as its symptoms can overlap with other learning difficulties. Typically, psychologists, neuropediatricians, and neuropsychologists are involved in this diagnosis.

The diagnostic process usually begins with a detailed analysis of the child’s school and medical history. Interviews with parents are also essential to trace a complete history. These first steps help identify any environmental or genetic factors that may be affecting academic performance.

Standardized tests are also used to identify specific difficulty points. These tests can assess a range of skills, from reading and writing to basic math skills. Understanding where the child is struggling allows professionals to create a focused and individualized treatment plan.

But here arises the biggest difficulty: the lack of qualified professionals and specific diagnostic tools for dyscalculia. This can delay diagnosis, harming the child’s development.

Therefore, it is crucial that caregivers seek specialized help as soon as they notice possible symptoms of dyscalculia in the child. The sooner the diagnosis is identified, the better the chances of success in treatment.

Treatment for Dyscalculia: Modalities and Importance of Multidisciplinarity

There is no single “best path” to treat dyscalculia, but a multidisciplinary approach is what proves most effective. This is because the treatment for dyscalculia involves professionals from various fields such as educators, psychologists, neurologists, and occupational therapists. Each with their expertise can contribute to a more effective outcome.

Individualized learning techniques are a crucial part of the treatment. With the help of a specialist educator, the patient learns different ways to understand numbers and improve their skills. This can be done through math games, practical activities, and the use of assistive technology.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy with a psychologist can also be very relevant. This can help alleviate anxiety and improve self-esteem, which are common in people with dyscalculia. Occupational therapy helps improve fine motor skills, which are also generally impaired.

It is worth noting that, although dyscalculia has no cure, studying and understanding this condition is fundamental to building effective treatment strategies. With the right support and multidisciplinarity in treatment, a person with dyscalculia can learn to manage their challenges and thrive academically and professionally.

Clinical Hypnosis as an Ally in the Treatment of Dyscalculia

Clinical hypnosis stands out as an excellent ally in the treatment of dyscalculia. It can alleviate symptoms and contribute to improving the individual’s performance.

When answering “dyscalculia what is it”, we need to consider that this condition is characterized by difficulties in dealing with numbers and performing mathematical calculations. This is where clinical hypnosis shows its effectiveness. Through relaxation techniques and the induction of the hypnotic trance, it is possible to modify automatic thoughts and behaviors that are interfering with the learning process.

Hypnotherapists lead cognitive restructuring, helping people to relearn and establish a new relationship with mathematics. This new perspective can transform anxiety and fear into confidence and security. Furthermore, clinical hypnosis enables greater focus and attention, crucial elements when the goal is to overcome challenges related to dyscalculia.

It is important to emphasize that hypnosis is not a magical, miraculous, or unique treatment for dyscalculia. It is a therapeutic tool of great value when used in conjunction with other forms of intervention, such as a multidisciplinary approach by education and health professionals.

The field of clinical hypnosis is vast, and we encourage the pursuit of professional training for all those who wish to work helping people, whether in overcoming dyscalculia or other emotional and behavioral challenges.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, we learned “dyscalculia what is it”, discussing its symptoms, causes, and the best treatments. We understand that the neurobiological disorder that manifests as difficulty in understanding and manipulating numbers and mathematical concepts can be a challenge not only for the individuals experiencing dyscalculia but also for the professionals tasked with assisting them. In this sense, clinical hypnosis presents itself as a strategic, ethical, and scientifically-based approach to help face this challenge.

Clinical hypnosis, contrary to what many may think, is a valuable and safe tool that engages in a productive dialogue with more traditional treatment approaches. In the case of dyscalculia, it can be used to assist in treatment and promote greater emotional and cognitive well-being for those affected.

In summary, dyscalculia is a condition that requires attention, understanding, and an appropriate treatment approach. And clinical hypnosis can represent a crucial component of that approach.

If you are interested in delving into scientific hypnosis to expand your professional skills or even adopt a new profession, we invite you to learn about the courses and postgraduate studies in evidence-based hypnosis from the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis. To learn more, visit: https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific age for diagnosing dyscalculia?

While some symptoms of dyscalculia can be noticed in children as early as preschool, the diagnosis tends to be more accurate from the age of 7, when math skills become more essential in the school curriculum.

Is dyscalculia genetically based?

Although dyscalculia is not necessarily a hereditary condition, research indicates that genetic factors may be involved. However, it is important to remember that this does not determine the condition, as environmental and educational aspects also influence.

How can clinical hypnosis help in the treatment of dyscalculia?

Clinical hypnosis can assist in the treatment of dyscalculia by helping reduce anxiety, increase focus, and facilitate access to cognitive skills. Additionally, it can allow professionals to explore and work on emotional issues that may be associated with mathematical difficulty.

Is there treatment for dyscalculia?

Yes, there is treatment for dyscalculia. In addition to pedagogical intervention that focuses on math difficulties, cognitive-behavioral therapy and clinical hypnosis can be used. Each case requires an individualized approach to find the most effective strategy.

What is the difference between dyscalculia and difficulty in mathematics?

Dyscalculia is a specific learning disorder that affects the ability to understand and manipulate numbers. Unlike difficulty in mathematics, it is not linked to a lack of practice or inappropriate teaching, but rather to a neurobiological disorder.

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