Discovering Dyspraxia: A British Muslim South Asian perspective on late diagnosis

In the vibrant tapestry of British Muslim South Asian communities, understanding neurodiversity often takes unexpected turns. For many, the discovery of dyspraxia—a neurological condition affecting physical coordination and organisation skills—comes not in childhood but as a revelation in adult life. This late diagnosis phenomenon sheds light on our communities' complex interplay of culture, education, and healthcare.

 

The Hidden Challenge

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects about 5% of the population. Yet, within British Muslim South Asian circles, it often goes unrecognised until adulthood. Why?

1. Cultural Perceptions: In many South Asian cultures, clumsiness or difficulty with coordination may be seen as a character trait rather than a neurological condition. Phrases like "hath pair tor diye – ("broke hands and feet") or "awkward") are often used affectionately, masking potential underlying issues.
2. Academic Focus: The emphasis on academic achievement in many South Asian families can overshadow physical coordination challenges. A child struggling with handwriting or sports may be encouraged to focus more on studies, inadvertently leaving dyspraxia unaddressed. 
3. Limited Awareness: Within the British healthcare system, there's a general lack of awareness about dyspraxia. This gap is often more pronounced in minority communities where language barriers or cultural differences may limit access to information.
4. Gender Expectations: In some South Asian contexts, physical awkwardness may be more readily accepted in girls, potentially leading to underdiagnosis. Conversely, boys might face pressure to 'toughen up', dismissing coordination issues as a lack of effort.

The Journey to Diagnosis

For many British Muslims of South Asian heritage, the path to a dyspraxia diagnosis in adulthood is often triggered by:

• Persistent struggles in the workplace with organisation or manual tasks- Difficulties in learning to drive or use public transport efficiently
• Challenges in maintaining personal spaces or time management
• Retrospective understanding of lifelong struggles with sports or handwriting

 

Cultural Nuances in Acceptance

Receiving a dyspraxia diagnosis as an adult in a British Muslim South Asian context comes with unique challenges: 

1. Family Understanding: Explaining dyspraxia to family members, especially elders, may require navigating cultural beliefs about health and ability.
2. Community Perceptions: There might be concerns about 'labels' affecting marriage prospects or community standing.
3. Religious Interpretation: Some may view the diagnosis through a spiritual lens, seeing it as a test from Allah or seeking religious guidance alongside medical support. 
4. Intersectionality: The experience of being neurodivergent intersects with the experience of being an ethnic and religious minority, adding layers of complexity to identity and belonging.

Moving Forward: Embracing Neurodiversity

Late diagnosis of dyspraxia in British Muslim South Asian adults opens doors to: 

1. Self-Understanding: Finally, explaining lifelong challenges can be immensely validating. 
2. Community Education: Those diagnosed can become advocates, raising community awareness. 
3. Culturally Sensitive Support: There's an opportunity for developing support systems that respect cultural and religious values while addressing neurodevelopmental needs. 
4. Professional Growth: Understanding one's dyspraxia can lead to better workplace accommodations and career choices aligned with individual strengths.

 

 

Discovering dyspraxia later in life as a British Muslim of South Asian heritage is a journey of self-discovery, community education, and cultural navigation. It highlights the need for greater awareness of neurodiversity within our communities and culturally competent healthcare services. As we move forward, embracing neurodiversity as a medical reality and as part of our cultural tapestry will enrich our communities and empower individuals to thrive in their unique neurological landscapes.

 

Written by: Tahirah Yasin (Accred. Psychotherapist, BA, MSc.) CEO The Neuro Directory