Why Did I Start Writing This Blog/Book? Why the book matters.

· The blog is a mix of lived experience, encouragement, disability rights advocacy, and creative expression. It has become a helpful resource for people who are navigating similar journeys, and for those who want to understand the world through Sara’s eyes better.

· This book builds on that foundation, turning individual posts and experiences into a structured guide for wider audiences, including students, parents, educators, and support workers.

· [Optional] Photo Caption

· Sara Jane Gorman – advocate, writer, and speaker – sharing her experiences to raise awareness and inspire change.

· (Use this under your author photo if you include one in the book.)

· Personal Quote from Sara (optional)

· “We all have a voice. Sometimes we just need the right support to help us use it—and the right people to hear it.”
— Sara Jane Gorman

I was born and bred in Wolverhampton, UK.

🧩	I was born with Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Epilepsy, Anxiety, and Depression I Wolverhampton UK.
💡	Why I Wrote This Book: I started my website in 2007 and worked with Royal Wolverhampton Mencap to support people like me.
📚	My Experience: I overcame school struggles, learned from my challenges, and became a lecturer and advocate.
🎯	My Goal: To educate and support those with learning disabilities and mental health needs.

My Experience in Brief

· Early Struggles:

o I did not understand why I was labeled as “clumsy” or why I broke pencils often.

o I later learned this was due to Dyspraxia.

o I also faced difficulties with math because of Dyscalculia, which often caused anxiety.

· Epilepsy and Medication:

o I was on a medication called phenobarbital as a baby and child.

o It made me feel hyper, sleepy, and moody.

o After I stopped the medication, I began to see the world more clearly.

· Learning Disabilities and Communication:

o I understand that people have many different needs—some need pictures, others need clear text, and some prefer spoken words.

o Always ask each person how they want to receive information.

I am a passionate advocate, writer, and public speaker who has firsthand experience living with a learning disability and mental health awareness. I am committed to raising awareness, assisting others, and addressing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and mental health issues. I used to do advocacy work, including community initiatives like Access All Areas Now! and partnerships with organizations such as Royal Wolverhampton Mencap, what was Employment Pathways (now known as Senator), and One Voice Wolverhampton.

· I possesses qualifications in IT, Advocacy, Mentoring, and Functional Skills in English. Additionally, she is a creative writer and playwright, using her website, Sara Revealed, to share her insights and advocacy efforts. As a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Wolverhampton, she teaches health and social care students and professionals about the realities of living with learning disabilities.

· Fueled by her enthusiasm for communication and effecting change, and shaped by her lived experiences, Sara serves as a compelling advocate for equality and representation, motivating individuals from diverse backgrounds through her ongoing initiatives.

· Comprehending learning difficulties can be daunting, particularly when navigating the complexities of learning disabilities, mental health issues, or other challenges. It can be tough to ensure your voice is heard and your presence recognized when others may not fully understand your experiences.

· This book / blog emerges from my desire to convey how my disability influences my everyday life and to express the specific assistance and support that individuals like myself require and desire. This intention inspired the creation of my blog, Sara Revealed, which has now evolved into the content you are about to read.

· You can visit my blog at: sararevealed.blogspot.com https://saraslearningdisabilityandmental.blogspot.com/

I possess qualifications in IT, Advocacy, Mentoring, and Functional Skills in English. Additionally, she is a creative writer and playwright, using her website, Sara Revealed, to share her insights and advocacy efforts. As a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Wolverhampton, I used to teach Disability and Mental Health Awareness to students and professionals about the realities of living with learning disabilities.

This book emerges from my desire to convey how my disability influences my everyday life and to express the specific assistance and support that individuals like myself require and desire. This intention inspired the creation of my blog, Sara Revealed, which has now evolved into the content you are about to read.

· You can visit my blog at: sararevealed.blogspot.com https://saraslearningdisabilityandmental.blogspot.com/

· I draw deeply from her personal experiences as someone with learning difficulties and mental health challenges. My journey has been shaped by her work with organizations such as Mencap and One Voice Wolverhampton, where she has supported others and raised awareness through public speaking, training, and creative projects.

I have delivered learning disability awareness training.

· Health care students at the University of Wolverhampton.

· The School of Nursing at the University Of Wolverhampton.

· Healthcare Professionals at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton

I spoke up for the rights of people with learning disabilities and am a member of ‘Our Shout’, a self-advocacy group based in the City of Wolverhampton. I have worked as a consultant in the field of learning disability and have delivered presentations to professionals locally and regionally.

I am a keen writer and in 2008, I wrote and co-produced a play to highlight the difficulties faced by people with learning disabilities in accessing employment. I am currently undertaking a ‘Script and Screen Writers’ course to develop my skills in this area. I continually strive to keep learning disability on the agenda and am a role model to my peers.

I shared a very small business with another person with learning disabilities, supported by Royal Wolverhampton Mencap and Employment Pathways back in December 2009. It was called Access All Areas Now! It became unsuccessful due to the lack of Mencap's and Employment Pathway's funding back in January 2011. Now Employment Pathways has changed its name to Senator. We aimed to see that people with learning disabilities get better help than we did.

I made sure that there was learning disability there was on the agenda. I have supported members of Our Shout to chair and take the minutes of the meeting on topics of their choice.

I am a keen writer; in 2008, I wrote and co-produced a play to highlight the difficulties faced by people with learning disabilities in accessing employment. Not long after writing the play, I did a Script and Screen course to try and better my writing.

I have been writing my website since 2007, it's called Sara Revealed sararevealed.blogspot.com/ my email address is sarajgorman@gmail.com

I once helped Mencap set up a Disabled Writers’ group. I’m unsure whether the Writer’s group is going or not because I haven’t had any work with Mencap for over twelve months.

Just to let you know, every April is Autism Awareness Month, every May is Mental Health Awareness Month, every June and October is learning disability months, June is the UK, and October is the USA.

¡ Heading: Listening to Others

¡ - I worked with groups and met many people.

¡ - I talked with children, parents, teachers, and people with disabilities.

¡ - Their stories helped me write this book.

¡ Heading: What This Book Is About

- Real people with autism, dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, and physical disabilities.

· I also run a blog, which shares honest reflections on daily life, advocacy, disability rights, and emotional well-being. This book is an extension of that blog—her first published work—bringing together many of the topics she explores online in a more structured and accessible way.

· The book/ blog then moves on to discuss real-life challenges people face, such as emotional struggles, access to support, education and employment barriers, and the impact of social stigma. It also looks at the systems meant to help, from healthcare and education to community support and advocacy.

· Each chapter is designed to be informative, easy to read, and rooted in both personal insight and professional experience.

· Next Steps

· The next step in reading this book is to explore Chapter Two, which focuses on defining and understanding learning disabilities and special needs. This chapter lays the foundation for the rest of the book, helping readers gain a solid understanding of the language we use—and why it matters.

· Why This Book, blog Matters

· Understanding the complexities of learning disabilities, mental health, and special needs is an essential part of building a more inclusive society. As awareness grows, so does the need for books like this—grounded in real life, written by someone who lives it, and aimed at educating, supporting, and empowering others.

· Purpose of This book/blog:

· I am trying to create a deep, personal understanding of what it means to be neurodivergent and a passion for channeling that experience into research, writing, and advocacy. It's a journey I hope many of you will share, and I desire to highlight the accompanying strengths and talents as an increasingly vital part of the conversation around neurodiversity.

· The conditions you describe, which have been with you all your life, are part of the natural spectrum of human neurological variation. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of conditions, including but not limited to:

· · Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

· · Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

· · Dyslexia

· · Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder - DCD)

· · Dyscalculia

· · Tourette Syndrome

· · And other conditions that affect how individuals think, feel, learn, communicate, and perceive the world.

· Living with these lifelong traits profoundly shapes an individual's experience. Here's a glimpse into how they can affect various aspects of life, aligning with what you've described:

· · Thinking: This can involve unique patterns of thought, deep focus on specific interests (hyperfocus), innovative problem-solving approaches, and a different way of processing information – perhaps more visual, literal, or pattern-based. It can also involve challenges with executive functions like planning, organization, and transitioning between tasks.

· · Feeling: Emotional experiences can be intense and deeply felt. Some neurodivergent individuals report heightened empathy, while others might process or express emotions differently. Sensory sensitivities can also significantly impact emotional states, leading to overwhelm in certain environments. Co-occurring anxiety or depression is also common, often exacerbated by navigating a world not always designed for neurodivergent minds.

· · Learning: Learning styles can vary significantly. While traditional educational settings might pose challenges for some, many neurodivergent individuals possess exceptional abilities in areas of interest, demonstrating a capacity for deep knowledge acquisition and specialized skills. Hands-on learning, visual aids, or a need for quiet, distraction-free environments are common.

· · Communicating: Communication can differ from neurotypical norms. This might mean a preference for direct and literal language, differences in interpreting or using non-verbal cues (like eye contact or body language), or unique ways of expressing oneself. Written communication may be a strength for some, while others might excel in verbal articulation once comfortable.

· · Coping with Everyday Life: Navigating daily routines, social interactions, and sensory environments can require additional effort and specific coping strategies. Sensory sensitivities (to light, sound, texture, smells, etc.) are common and can lead to overload. Social situations might be fatiguing or require conscious effort to "mask" or fit in. However, many develop remarkable resilience and create effective, personalized strategies to thrive.

· Highlighting Skills and Talents

· Your ambition to highlight the skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals is crucial. The paradigm is shifting from a deficit-only model to one that recognizes and values the unique strengths that often accompany these conditions. Some widely recognized talents include:

· · Exceptional Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Seeing the world from a different perspective often leads to novel ideas and solutions.

· · Strong Pattern Recognition Abilities: Many neurodivergent individuals excel at identifying patterns, trends, and anomalies that others might miss. This is valuable in fields like data analysis, coding, and research.

· · Hyperfocus and Deep Concentration: The ability to concentrate intensely on tasks of interest can lead to high levels of productivity and expertise.

· · Attention to Detail and Accuracy: A meticulous approach can be a significant asset in roles requiring precision.

· · Unique Problem-Solving Skills: Thinking "outside the box" is often a natural strength.

· · Excellent Memory: Some neurodivergent individuals have exceptional long-term memory or recall for specific details.

· · Loyalty and Honesty: A straightforward and genuine approach is often noted.

· · Resilience and Perseverance: Overcoming challenges can foster remarkable strength and determination.

· Resources for Research and Writing

· There are numerous avenues to explore for your research and writing:

· · Academic Databases and Journals: Explore databases like PubMed, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Google Scholar using keywords like "neurodiversity," "autism," "ADHD," "dyslexia," combined with terms like "strengths," "talents," "employment," "lived experiences," "qualitative research," etc.

· · University Resources: Many universities have research centers, disability services, and library guides dedicated to neurodiversity. Examples include resources from the Mayo Clinic, Syracuse University, Stetson University, Montana State University, and Columbia University.

· · Books by Neurodivergent Authors and Researchers: Seek out books that offer both personal narratives and research-based insights. Authors like Temple Grandin, Judy Singer (who coined the term neurodiversity), Steve Silberman ("NeuroTribes"), and many others provide valuable perspectives.

· · Neurodiversity Advocacy Organizations: Groups such as the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the ADHD Foundation, the International Dyslexia Association, and others often publish research, personal stories, and resources. The Neurodiversity Hub and the Society for Neurodiversity are also valuable.

· · Online Communities and Blogs: Many neurodivergent individuals share their experiences and insights through blogs, forums, and social media groups. These can be rich sources of qualitative data and personal perspectives (always ensuring ethical engagement and citation if used in research).

· Platforms Highlighting Talents

· Efforts to showcase neurodivergent skills are growing, particularly in employment:

· · Neurodiversity Hiring Programs: Companies like Microsoft, SAP, Dell, EY, JPMorgan Chase, and Ford have established specific programs to recruit and support neurodivergent talent, recognizing the unique skills they bring.

· · Specialized Job Boards and Connectors: Platforms like the Neurodiversity Career Connector aim to link neurodivergent job seekers with inclusive employers.

· · Social Enterprises and Non-profits: Organizations exist that focus on training and employing neurodivergent individuals, highlighting their specific talents in areas like tech, arts, and detail-oriented tasks.

· · Conferences and Events: Neurodiversity-focused conferences and workshops often feature presentations and discussions on the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent people.

· · Media and Publications: There's a growing body of articles, documentaries, and books that specifically focus on the positive attributes and achievements of neurodivergent individuals.

· Your lifelong experience provides a powerful lens through which to conduct your research and writing. By combining your insights with rigorous research and a focus on strengths, you can contribute meaningfully to a more inclusive and understanding world that celebrates the full spectrum of human neurology.

This book is very important to me.

I have learning difficulties and mental health problems. I know how hard life can be when people don’t understand you. Sometimes people judge you instead of helping you. That is why I wrote this blog/ book.

I have worked with lots of groups. I have met children, parents, teachers, and people with disabilities. I listened to their stories. They helped me write this book.

This book is about real people. People with autism, dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, and physical disabilities. It talks about how these conditions affect daily life. It shows how we can support each other.

You will find stories, poems, and helpful tips. The book also has easy words and pictures to help everyone understand.

Some parts talk about hard things like bullying, feeling sad, or self-harm. These are real problems for many people. If you feel upset, it is okay to stop reading or talk to someone you trust.

This book is for anyone who wants to learn more. It is for students, families, teachers, and friends. You don’t need to be an expert. Just be kind and open to learning.

Thank you for reading with me. I hope this book helps you see the world more kindly.

The goal of this book/ blog is to
i am an advocate, writer, and speaker, sharing my experiences to raise awareness and inspire change.
personal quote from sara (optional) due to safety, it is easy to focus a lot on people's difficulties, which is not wrong, but try to focus a lot on people's strengths too, because everyone's life matters.”
“we all have a voice. sometimes we just need the right support to help us use it—and the right people to hear it.”
— Sara Jane Gorman
purpose of this book:
standard version (book purpose and preface):
The goal of this book is to support individuals at all levels of work and study in the fields of learning disabilities and mental health awareness.
i hope to help:

the goal of this book/ blog is to
i am an advocate, writer, and speaker, sharing my experiences to raise awareness and inspire change.
personal quote from sara (optional) due to safety, it is easy to focus a lot on people's difficulties, which is not wrong, but try to focus a lot on people's strengths too, because everyone's life matters.”
“we all have a voice. sometimes we just need the right support to help us use it—and the right people to hear it.”
— sara jane gorman
purpose of this book:
standard version (book purpose and preface):
the goal of this book is to support people at all levels of work and study in the field of learning disabilities and mental health awareness.
i hope to help:

Purpose of This book:

I am trying to create a deep, personal understanding of what it means to be neurodivergent and a passion for channeling that experience into research, writing, and advocacy. It's a journey I hope many of you will share, and my desire is to highlight the accompanying strengths and talents as an increasingly vital part of the conversation around neurodiversity.

This book is part of that journey, and I hope it helps others too.

· Families

· Friends

· Support workers

· Teachers

· And anyone who cares

Together, we can make the world a more understanding and kinder place

The conditions you describe, which have been with you all your life, are part of the natural spectrum of human neurological variation. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of conditions, including but not limited to:

Please learn about.

· Living with these lifelong traits profoundly shapes an individual's experience. Here's a glimpse into how they can affect various aspects of life, aligning with what you've described:

· Highlighting Skills and Talents

· · Exceptional Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Seeing the world from a different perspective often leads to novel ideas and solutions.

· · Hyperfocus and Deep Concentration: The ability to concentrate intensely on tasks of interest can lead to high levels of productivity and expertise.

· · Attention to Detail and Accuracy: A meticulous approach can be a significant asset in roles requiring precision.

· · Unique Problem-Solving Skills: Thinking "outside the box" is often a natural strength.

· · Excellent Memory: Some neurodivergent individuals have exceptional long-term memory or recall for specific details.

· · Loyalty and Honesty: A straightforward and genuine approach is often noted.

· · Resilience and Perseverance: Overcoming challenges can foster remarkable strength and determination.

· Resources for Research and Writing

· There are numerous avenues to explore for your research and writing:

· · Platforms Highlighting Talents

· Efforts to showcase neurodivergent skills are growing, particularly in employment:

· · Specialized Job Boards and Connectors: Platforms like the Neurodiversity Career Connector aim to link neurodivergent job seekers with inclusive employers.

· · Conferences and Events: Neurodiversity-focused conferences and workshops often feature presentations and discussions on the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent people.

· · Media and Publications: There's a growing body of articles, documentaries, and books that specifically focus on the positive attributes and achievements of neurodivergent individuals.

· Thinking: This can involve unique patterns of thought, deep focus on specific interests (hyperfocus), innovative problem-solving approaches, and a different way of processing information – perhaps more visual, literal, or pattern-based. It can also involve challenges with executive functions like planning, organization, and transitioning between tasks.

Highlighting Skills and Talents

· · Exceptional Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Seeing the world from a different perspective often leads to novel ideas and solutions.

· · Hyperfocus and Deep Concentration: The ability to concentrate intensely on tasks of interest can lead to high levels of productivity and expertise.

· · Attention to Detail and Accuracy: A meticulous approach can be a significant asset in roles requiring precision.

· · Unique Problem-Solving Skills: Thinking "outside the box" is often a natural strength.

· · Excellent Memory: Some neurodivergent individuals have exceptional long-term memory or recall for specific details.

· · Loyalty and Honesty: A straightforward and genuine approach is often noted.

· · Resilience and Perseverance: Overcoming challenges can foster remarkable strength and determination.

· Resources for Research and Writing

· There are numerous avenues to explore for your research and writing:

· Platforms Highlighting Talents

· Efforts to showcase neurodivergent skills are growing, particularly in employment:

· · Specialized Job Boards and Connectors: Platforms like the Neurodiversity Career Connector aim to link neurodivergent job seekers with inclusive employers.

· · Conferences and Events: Neurodiversity-focused conferences and workshops often feature presentations and discussions on the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent people.

· · Media and Publications: There's a growing body of articles, documentaries, and books that specifically focus on the positive attributes and achievements of neurodivergent individuals.

· Preface

· Learning Disability and Mental Health History

· Mental Illness Robin Williams (1951–2014) – Actor/Comedian

· Disabilities

· Entertainers and Artists

· 🧠 Authors and Thinkers

· 🎨 Artists

· 🧑‍⚖️ Leaders and Public Figures

· ♿ People with Physical Disabilities

· Neurodevelopmental and Cognitive Conditions

· Physical Disabilities

· Sections

· Chapter Organization (Starting from What’s Already Written)

II. Deconstructing Learning Disabilities and Special Needs

Book's blog Focus

· This book explores a wide range of topics around learning disabilities, mental health, and special educational needs. It begins by offering clear and simple definitions of key terms and conditions, helping readers understand the difference between labels such as learning difficulty, learning disability, special needs, and mental illness

What I Hope to Achieve

· Education:

o To educate students, professionals, families, and carers about learning disabilities and mental health.

· Awareness:

o To share my personal story so that others know they are not alone.

o To break down misunderstandings about conditions such as Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and others.

· Support:

o To support those with disabilities and provide clear, accessible information.

· Questions to Consider:

o What is the difference between a learning disability and a learning difficulty?

o How are Autism and Anxiety related?

o What supports do people need at school, work, and at home?

For more detailed explanations on specific conditions, you can refer to helpful websites like:
🔗 Read and Spell: Difference between Dyslexia and Dyspraxia
🔗 Understood.org: Math Anxiety vs. Dyscalculia

Poster (Awareness or Classroom/Office Display)

Title idea: “What You Can’t See Still Matters”

Visual elements:

• A symbolic image of a closed box with light shining from inside

• Simple, bold text highlighting your message

• Optional quote: “Speaking up takes courage.”

I can create this in Easy Read format too—with symbols, dyslexia-friendly fonts, and simplified sentences.

Some people do not understand because they have never been through it themselves.

I wrote this book (or blog) to help people:

Understand what life is like for people like me.

Thank you so much for your patience.

· Feeling: Emotional experiences can be intense and deeply felt. Some neurodivergent individuals report heightened empathy, while others might process or express emotions differently. Sensory sensitivities can also significantly impact emotional states, leading to overwhelm in certain environments. Co-occurring anxiety or depression is also common, often exacerbated by navigating a world not always designed for neurodivergent minds.

· Learning: Learning styles can vary significantly. While traditional educational settings might pose challenges for some, many neurodivergent individuals possess exceptional abilities in areas of interest, demonstrating a capacity for deep knowledge acquisition and specialized skills. Hands-on learning, visual aids, or a need for quiet, distraction-free environments are common.

· Communicating: Communication can differ from neurotypical norms. This might mean a preference for direct and literal language, differences in interpreting or using non-verbal cues (like eye contact or body language), or unique ways of expressing oneself. Written communication may be a strength for some, while others might excel in verbal articulation once comfortable.

· Coping with Everyday Life: Navigating daily routines, social interactions, and sensory environments can require additional effort and specific coping strategies. Sensory sensitivities (to light, sound, texture, smells, etc.) are common and can lead to overload. Social situations might be fatiguing or require conscious effort to "mask" or fit in. However, many develop remarkable resilience and create effective, personalized strategies to thrive.

Highlighting Skills and Talents

Your ambition to highlight the skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals is crucial. The paradigm is shifting from a deficit-only model to one that recognizes and values the unique strengths that often accompany these conditions. Some widely recognized talents include:

· Exceptional Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Seeing the world from a different perspective often leads to novel ideas and solutions.

· Strong Pattern Recognition Abilities: Many neurodivergent individuals excel at identifying patterns, trends, and anomalies that others might miss. This is valuable in fields like data analysis, coding, and research.

· Hyperfocus and Deep Concentration: The ability to concentrate intensely on tasks of interest can lead to high levels of productivity and expertise.

· Attention to Detail and Accuracy: A meticulous approach can be a significant asset in roles requiring precision.

· Unique Problem-Solving Skills: Thinking "outside the box" is often a natural strength.

· Excellent Memory: Some neurodivergent individuals have exceptional long-term memory or recall for specific details.

· Loyalty and Honesty: A straightforward and genuine approach is often noted.

· Resilience and Perseverance: Overcoming challenges can foster remarkable strength and determination.

Resources for Research and Writing

There are numerous avenues to explore for your research and writing:

· Academic Databases and Journals: Explore databases like PubMed, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Google Scholar using keywords like "neurodiversity," "autism," "ADHD," "dyslexia," combined with terms like "strengths," "talents," "employment," "lived experiences," "qualitative research," etc.

· University Resources: Many universities have research centers, disability services, and library guides dedicated to neurodiversity. Examples include resources from the Mayo Clinic, Syracuse University, Stetson University, Montana State University, and Columbia University.

· Books by Neurodivergent Authors and Researchers: Seek out books that offer both personal narratives and research-based insights. Authors like Temple Grandin, Judy Singer (who coined the term neurodiversity), Steve Silberman ("NeuroTribes"), and many others provide valuable perspectives.

· Neurodiversity Advocacy Organizations: Groups such as the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the ADHD Foundation, the International Dyslexia Association, and others often publish research, personal stories, and resources. The Neurodiversity Hub and the Society for Neurodiversity are also valuable.

· Online Communities and Blogs: Many neurodivergent individuals share their experiences and insights through blogs, forums, and social media groups. These can be rich sources of qualitative data and personal perspectives (always ensuring ethical engagement and citation if used in research).

Platforms Highlighting Talents

Efforts to showcase neurodivergent skills are growing, particularly in employment:

· Neurodiversity Hiring Programs: Companies like Microsoft, SAP, Dell, EY, JPMorgan Chase, and Ford have established specific programs to recruit and support neurodivergent talent, recognizing the unique skills they bring.

· Specialized Job Boards and Connectors: Platforms like the Neurodiversity Career Connector aim to link neurodivergent job seekers with inclusive employers.

· Social Enterprises and Non-profits: Organizations exist that focus on training and employing neurodivergent individuals, highlighting their specific talents in areas like tech, arts, and detail-oriented tasks.

· Conferences and Events: Neurodiversity-focused conferences and workshops often feature presentations and discussions on the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent people.

· Media and Publications: There's a growing body of articles, documentaries, and books that specifically focus on the positive attributes and achievements of neurodivergent individuals.

Your lifelong experience provides a powerful lens through which to conduct your research and writing. By combining your insights with rigorous research and a focus on strengths, you can contribute meaningfully to a more inclusive and understanding world that celebrates the full spectrum of human neurology.

Preface

Learning Disability and Mental Health History

Mental Illness Robin Williams (1951–2014) – Actor/Comedian

Disabilities

Entertainers and Artists

🧠 Authors and Thinkers

🎨 Artists

🧑‍⚖️ Leaders and Public Figures

♿ People with Physical Disabilities

Neurodevelopmental and Cognitive Conditions

Physical Disabilities

Sections

Chapter Organization (Starting from What’s Already Written)

II. Deconstructing Learning Disabilities and Special Needs

· Learn about different conditions

· Support people with similar challenges

· group called Our Shout, which helped me kick-start a career working with people who are similar, different, or the same as myself.

· On that website, I shared some of the struggles my family went through to fight for the support I needed—support that I still need to this day.

· I was part of Our Shout, a self-advocacy group in Wolverhampton, which was funded by what was Royal Wolverhampton Mencap UK.
I have tried to help others understand learning disabilities through my experience of having a learning disability.
I have given talks and training to professionals.

· I have been wanting to be a writer since I was twenty-three years old.

· My goal is to raise awareness of learning difficulties, disabilities, mental health, and other conditions.
📅 In 2008, I helped write and produce a play.
🎭 The play showed how hard it can be for people with learning disabilities to find jobs.

· 🎬I have learned more by taking a Script and Screen Writers’ course.

· I want to keep learning disabilities on the agenda.
🌟 I hope I will empower others in my situation to raise awareness of Learning disability and mental health.

· From 2012 to 2015, I worked for One Voice Advocacy service in Wolverhampton as an Advocate, and I also started work with the Success group as a Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness trainer. Now I was a Visiting Lecture of Learning Disability and Mental Health awareness trainer from 2012 to 2024 for the University Of Wolverhampton.

Now I used to run four groups on Facebook book the Disabled Advocacy group, Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness, a group I ran with my ex-partner Tim, Hate Crime Towards Disabled People, and I run one called Reader's and Writer's group for writers and readers. People are more than welcome to join either one, two, three or all groups if they want. Thank you.

I have firsthand experience with facing learning disabilities. I was born in Wolverhampton.

I was part of Our Shout, a self-advocacy group in Wolverhampton, which was funded by what

· How do these conditions affect lives?

· How can we support one another?

· What will you find inside?

· Stories and poems.

¡ Helpful tips

¡ - Easy words and pictures to help everyone understand

¡ Heading: Talking About Hard Things

¡ - Bullying, feeling sad, and self-harm

¡ - These are real problems for many people

¡ - It’s okay to stop reading or talk to someone if you feel upset

🎓 Education, Employment & Advocacy

In my experience, many employers don’t understand learning disabilities or mental health. Despite progress, discrimination still exists. People with disabilities are often seen as a risk or liability, rather than being given the tools and support they need.

The UK Disability Discrimination Act and Health & Safety laws should protect us—but not everyone follows them.

In some places (like New York, where my mother lives), people are supported to train in areas they enjoy. I wish this were true everywhere.

✍️ My Purpose in Writing

Ever since I was 23, I wanted to be a writer.

This ook is here to:

· Tell my story

· Share what I’ve learned

· Teach people about disability and mental health awareness

· Help people with disabilities, and those who teach, care for, or support them

You might not agree with everything. That’s okay. But if this book makes you think, feel less alone, or learn something new, then I have achieved my goal.

Before You Read on.

Before we begin, I want to let you know something important.
Even though this book is called Special Needs, Learning Difficulties, Disabilities, and Mental Health Awareness, it also includes people who experience mental illness, even if they don’t have any other condition.

In this chapter (and throughout the book), I’ll be talking about how mental health, mental illness, and other conditions like learning difficulties or disabilities can sometimes be linked. But first, I want to help you understand mental health and mental illness on their own, one step at a time.

You might already know some of this—and that’s okay!
Please feel free to skip any parts you’re already familiar with.
We all know different things. Some parts might be new or tricky for one person, but easy for someone else—and that’s completely normal.
I’ll say this for the whole book: Take what you need and skip what you don’t.

Everyone is at all different levels, and you will be reading blogs/books for all different reasons.

Sorry, I did not say all this to start with.

Like us all, I am still learning too, some things I already know from living with my learning difficulties, disabilities, and mental health problems, others I have researched from the internet and in books.

Before You Read on.

Everyone is at all different levels, and you will be reading blogs/books for all different reasons.

Sorry, I did not say all this to start with.

I am the author of Sara’s Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness Blog and Sara Revealed websites, and I am writing this book, titled Special Needs, Learning Difficulties, Disabilities, and Mental Health Awareness. This blog/ book is for people with learning disabilities, mental illness, and other challenges—as well as for those who support them, including parents, families, carers, professionals, and more.

In addition to raising awareness, I’ll also be sharing my creative work, including my art, writing, and poetry. I’m currently working on a book based on the blog, which will go into more detail about my personal experiences and the support I’ve needed throughout my life.

The blog is open to people all around the world, including both the USA and the UK, and I will be including helpful links relevant to both countries.

In case you're wondering, I won’t be closing Sara Revealed down. I don’t think it would even be possible to close one without affecting the other, because I believe both are naturally linked together. This book is based on a website I first wrote in 2007; I have since updated it. I started writing it at the same time my Gran passed away, with the support of my mother and sister. At the time, I was working for Royal Wolverhampton Mencap, which was based at the Science Park. I was also part of a self-advocacy group called Our Shout, which helped me kick-start a career working with people who are similar, different, or the same as myself.

On that website, I shared some of the struggles my family went through to fight for the support I needed—support that I still need to this day.

From 2012 to 2015, I worked for One Voice Advocacy service in Wolverhampton as an Advocate, and I also started work with the Success group as a Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness trainer. Now I was a Visiting Lecturer of Learning Disability and Mental Health awareness trainer from 2012 to 2024 for the University of Wolverhampton.

Now I am running four groups on Facebook book the Disabled Advocacy group, Learning Disability and Mental Health Awareness, a group I run with my ex-partner Tim Hate Crime Towards Disabled People, and I run one called Reader's and Writer's group for writers and reader. People are more than welcome to join either one, two three or all groups if they want. Thank you.

Thank you so much for your patience

It’s not always easy to understand learning difficulties—especially when you have a learning disability, mental illness, or other challenges yourself. It can be hard to make yourself heard and seen, and even harder for others to understand what life is like when they haven’t experienced it.

I’m authoring this book to share how my disability affects my day-to-day life and to explain the kind of help and support I want and need.

You can follow my journey at:
🌐 sararevealed.blogspot.com
📧 sarajgorman@gmail.com

SARA'S LEARNING DISABILITY AND MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS BLOG

Friday, 22 August 2025

THE INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL NEEDS AND MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS.

Why Did I Start Writing This Blog/Book? Why the book matters.

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