Do you have a slow processing disorder? You’ve heard of dyslexia and ADHD, but more and more people are being diagnosed with a condition that makes life difficult for both children and adults. Here are the symptoms to look out for…

More and more children are being diagnosed with slow processing disorder.

It results in problems in quickly understanding and retrieving information from the brain.

Slow processing can also be identified later in life, requiring coping mechanisms in your professional and personal life.

If you’re wondering if you or your child might be affected, here are some questions to consider…

What is slow processing?

Psychologist Dr. Morvwen Duncan says it can be helpful to think of your brain as a computer

Slow processing disorder is a special educational need (SEN) that does not correlate with intelligence, but may mean you need more time to complete tasks that involve receiving and understanding information.

Dr. Morvwen Duncan, clinical psychologist at The Lotus Psychology Practice (thelotuspsychology practice.co.uk), says it can be helpful to think of your brain as a computer, ‘receiving information from all your senses in a constant stream of data. Processing speed is how quickly your brain can take in the information and decide how to respond.”

Jacqui Strubel, specialist teacher and SEN consultant at floreteaching.co.uk, says: ‘It can be a standalone condition, but it can also co-occur with other special educational needs’ such as ADHD, dyslexia or dyscalculia.

What are the symptoms?

According to Lynn Lovell, head of professional standards at the British Dyslexia Association (bda.uk.com), the signs may include: ‘Slow to respond to verbal instructions or questions; it takes longer than others to read or write; feeling overwhelmed by too much information; difficulty following conversations and picking up social cues; poor time management; finding it difficult to find the right word; and fear when it is necessary to work quickly.’

How are adults affected?

At work, you may have difficulty absorbing information during long meetings or following multi-step instructions. “This can lead to increased workplace stress, overwhelm and burnout,” says Dr. Duncan.

‘Slow processing speed can affect friendships and relationships, as a person often feels ‘left behind’ during conversations and often starts tasks that remain unfinished.’

Best coping strategies

Strubel says you should share a diagnosis with your employer because an employee with slow processing “might not be able to do that.”

completing aspects of their work in the same time as someone else, through no fault of their own. They may then have to inform their employer about the situation.’

She also suggests color-coding your calendar and asking for regular breaks during long meetings.

Lovell recommends leveraging technology. “Reading software can help process written information,” she says, and “reminder apps can help memory. Use the features on your mobile phone to assist with recording, calling and scheduling. Ask for an agenda before meetings.”