Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) is often misunderstood because it doesn’t fit neatly into common learning disability categories. As someone with high-functioning NVLD, I have strong verbal skills, an excellent memory for facts, and the ability to articulate complex ideas. On the surface, I may seem highly capable. However, beneath this competence, I face persistent struggles with executive functioning—planning, organization, time management, and task completion. These difficulties affect nearly every aspect of my life, from academics and work to daily responsibilities and self-care.
One of the most frustrating aspects of NVLD is the contradiction between my strengths and my challenges. Because I can express myself well and understand concepts at a deep level, people assume I should have no trouble managing my responsibilities. What they don’t see is how much effort it takes to stay organized, complete tasks efficiently, and maintain focus.
For example, I can write a well-structured essay but might struggle to start it because I feel overwhelmed by where to begin. I might understand a work assignment but misjudge how long it will take to complete, leading to procrastination and last-minute stress. These struggles aren’t due to a lack of intelligence or motivation; they stem from my brain’s difficulty in managing the “how” rather than the “what.”
