first conversation hello i'm new here

[boomerangbabe92]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to start a conversation about how childhood experiences with school can impact our mental health, especially for those who may have faced struggles like learning disabilities.

For me, growing up dyslexic, going to school every day and trying hard but constantly feeling like I was failing took a huge toll on my self-confidence. Looking back, that was when I feel my battle with mental health really began. After years of battling addictions and mental health breakdowns, I’ve fought my way back to a healthier version of myself through medication, psychotherapy, and a lot of hard work. Slowly, I’m working my way back to a mentally healthier me, in recovery.

But now, after 15+ years, I’ve returned to studying. Honestly, it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. While I’m passing and even enjoying the classes, the old feelings of inadequacy and frustration are coming back, and it’s really triggering. I feel myself starting to decline mentally again, and it’s been a struggle.

I’m curious, does anyone else here relate to this? How did your experiences with school affect your mental health? What tips or coping strategies do you use to manage triggers like this, especially if you’re going back into education later in life?

Would love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

[Ru-bee]

Hi @boomerangbabe92 

I just wanted to quickly stop by and say welcome to the forums 

What an amazing thing to return to study after having such a hard time of it earlier in life. While it sounds like it is still a challenge as it taps into some of those earlier experiences of feeling frustrated and inadequate, even just recognising this and reaching out to discuss it shows great self-awareness.

I'll be really interested to read responses on this from the community and hear of other's experiences

[tyme]

Hey @boomerangbabe92 ,

I hear what you are saying. Although I do not have personal experience, I have worked with many who are in a similar space. 

In a way, I feel there is so much more awareness of dyslexia now which means there are supports in place. Not to mention, the huge advances in technology mean education is so much more accessible than it was 15 years ago.

For a student I worked with, we used evidence based literacy programs to support his reading. From there, he had access to C-pens, voice to text devices, audio versions of books, read alouds etc. Then for assessments, he would have a reader and scribe. 

Even at uni and higher education, an inclusion/learning team can often help with providing adjustments to make learning accessible.

Nowadays, from early days, it is flagged a lot earlier so that the child is made to feel successful in things they are good at and thus supporting their mental health.

I recognise this is probably not what you experienced, but I can see how far things have come.

Disability Standards for Education stipulate that adjustments MUST be made for students with disability. If not, they are in breach of the law.

What are your thoughts?

[Alisse]

Hi @boomerangbabe92 

Firstly, congradulations on returing to sudy as a mature student.   That's such a courageous and empowering decision, especially given your childhood experiences with the education system.  You should be incredibly proud of yourself for taking this step. 

Education has come a long way in terms of inclusivity and support for students with learning challenges and disabilities.  I hope you'll feel encouraged to reach out for any assistance or accommodations you might need, your success matters, and there are people who want to help you achieve it.

It sounds like your'e doing really well in your studies and even enjoying the process, which is fantastic.  I understand how hard it can be when old feelings of inadequacy from childhood cloud the progress your'e making.  Those feelings can be persistent, but they aren't a reflection of your current abilities.

I went back to study as a mature student a couple of years ago after struggling in school as a child.  It was overwhelming at first,  so much had changed, and the learning curve with new technology was steep!  But I stuck with it and eventually found a new passion for learning.

The negative thoughts crept in for me too, especially when I felt out of my depth.  What helped was reality-checking those thoughts, I reminded myself that I'm no longer that vulnerable child. I can ask for help, I can advocate for myself, and Iam capable of learning and growing.

I hope you find the strength to challenge those old beliefs and feel empowered by your learning journey.  Be kind and compassionate to your younger self, your showing her just how strong and capable you've become.

Wishing you continued success on your leaning journey.

Kindly Alisse

[outlander]

hello @boomerangbabe92
and welcome!

I dont struggle with dyslexia myself but i had many problems in school which led to difficulties in learning, affecting my grades and capacity to understand.
I found for me learning online was easier, i started back with small skills courses that would only take me a day or 2 and after doing some of those and regaining some confidence i was able to work back up to some other courses. ive not been able to go back to in person learning though.
have you considered seeing a psychologist whilst your studying? sometimes continuing to work through those emotions can be helpful. i see a psychologist each fortnight to help manage so many emotions and struggles.
Also Tafe/uni usually have some support as well if you reach out to the co-ordinator. they can help with offering extensions, one-one tutoring, and sometimes the have onsite counsellors as well.