Matt

“It wasn’t easy, but receiving confirmation of my dyslexia has helped me embrace who I am rather than feeling like I just needed to “try harder.” 

BEFORE: Trapped in the Unknown

Matt’s life was a constant battle against invisible obstacles. For years, he struggled without understanding why. School was challenging, communication felt like speaking a different language, and everyday organisation seemed impossibly complex. Despite his intelligence and capabilities, something kept holding him back.

As an adult, these struggles continued, affecting his confidence, career opportunities, and family relationships. Matt knew he had potential but couldn’t access it fully—like trying to read a map in the dark.

AFTER: Empowered Through Understanding

Everything changed when Matt received his dyslexia diagnosis through the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity. This final piece of his neurodiversity puzzle—alongside his autism and ADHD—transformed his understanding of himself and unlocked his true potential.

Helping others through lived experience
The impact of Matt’s diagnosis extends beyond his own personal growth. By recognising the breadth and individuality of dyslexia, he has developed a greater appreciation for supporting others who may struggle. With this newfound confidence, Matt has been able to successfully run a cooking group primarily for Autistic individuals—something he couldn’t have managed before his dyslexia diagnosis.

Matt’s journey demonstrates that with the right support and understanding, individuals with dyslexia can unlock their potential, gain confidence, and even find new ways to help others. He is thankful for the team at Helen Arkell and everyone who supports the charity, as their work has given him the strategies and self-awareness to navigate life with dyslexia.

As Matt says, “From the start, the assessment looked at my strengths, not my weaknesses. It has opened my eyes to how broad and individual dyslexia is, and I now have a much greater appreciation for supporting others. The help I received has been truly life-changing.”