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Does ADHD/dyslexia lead to anxiety in school? 

Yes, ADHD dyslexia anxiety school is a common issue, as children with both ADHD and dyslexia often experience heightened stress and anxiety in academic settings. The challenges of managing attention, focus, and reading difficulties can create a sense of frustration and inadequacy, contributing to school anxiety ADHD dyslexia. The emotional toll of struggling with schoolwork, feeling misunderstood, and dealing with the pressure of meeting academic expectations can lead to significant anxiety. 

The ADHD dyslexia emotional impact school can be profound, as children with both conditions may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or incapable of meeting their peers’ performance standards. The stress caused by these challenges can lead to avoidance behaviours, social withdrawal, and further academic difficulties. 

How ADHD and Dyslexia Contribute to Anxiety in School 

The combination of ADHD dyslexia anxiety school creates a perfect storm of emotional and cognitive difficulties. Some key contributors include: 

Struggles with reading and focus  

Children with ADHD and dyslexia may find reading and concentrating on lessons difficult, which can lead to feelings of frustration, failure, and anxiety about schoolwork. 

Difficulty meeting academic expectations  

The inability to keep up with reading tasks or follow instructions in class may create anxiety about falling behind or disappointing teachers and parents. 

Social challenges  

Children with ADHD and dyslexia may also experience social anxiety due to difficulties in interacting with peers, particularly in group work or during activities requiring focus and organisation. 

Avoidance behaviours  

As a result of persistent anxiety, children may begin to avoid school-related tasks, which can further exacerbate their struggles. 

Final thoughts 

ADHD dyslexia anxiety school is a significant concern, and understanding the emotional challenges that children face is key to providing appropriate support. Addressing both academic difficulties and emotional well-being can help reduce anxiety and improve school performance. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to explore strategies for managing anxiety comorbid ADHD dyslexia in the classroom. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia). 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Author

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.