While anxiety attacks can cause a range of cognitive and physical symptoms, dyslexia itself is typically a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects reading skills and is not directly caused by anxiety. Dyslexia is a learning difference characterized by difficulties with accurate and fluent word recognition, poor spelling, and decoding abilities.
During an anxiety attack, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, and cognitive changes. These cognitive changes may include difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, and feeling mentally overwhelmed, but they don't cause dyslexia.
However, anxiety can exacerbate pre-existing learning difficulties, including dyslexia. For someone who already has dyslexia, anxiety and stress can make it even more challenging to focus and process information, which may lead to increased reading difficulties. In this sense, anxiety can indirectly impact reading abilities for someone with dyslexia.
It's essential to differentiate between temporary cognitive difficulties caused by anxiety and the persistent reading challenges associated with dyslexia. If you or someone you know is experiencing reading difficulties or anxiety-related issues, it's crucial to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare provider or mental health specialist. They can provide a proper evaluation and appropriate support to address the specific concerns and provide effective strategies for managing anxiety and dyslexia, if applicable.