Dyslexia as a mental health story | In-person
About this Event
How do experiences of dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and other specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) shape our wellbeing across different stages of life? And could earlier identification and support make a difference?
In this Curious talk, hear how Dyslexia Scotland’s nationwide survey of dyslexic adults recorded some of the common mental health challenges faced every day by people living with SpLDs. We’ll also learn more about how people with SpLDs face a higher risk of experiencing mental illness.
Starting with a short ‘fly-by’ presentation of the report’s results, the bulk of the session will involve a panel discussion sharing perspectives from ‘the science’, from policy makers, including filmmaker Trevor Thomson who will share the trailer to his latest documentary exploring life with dyslexia. Themes may include what day-to-day life currently looks like, what it should look like, and what we can do at each level to make it better for everyone. We’ll then end with a Q&A from audiences in person and online.
Whether you're an educator, researcher, practitioner, student, parent, or someone with an SpLD, come join the talk and put forward your questions with some of Scotland’s leading experts.
Can't attend in-person? Watch online!
This is a hybrid event. This event page is for the in-person tickets only. If you would like to attend online, please book your tickets through the
Important points to note
- This event is suitable for age 16+
- Event format: This event is a talk and will involve some speakers sharing talking followed by a Q&A. There may be some interactive parts of the event but you can just sit back and enjoy listening.
- Filming: Livestreaming and photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed. Recorded events will be made available on the RSE YouTube channel.
SPEAKER
Professor Silvia Paracchini
Professor of Neurogenetics and Genomics, University of St Andrews
Silvia Paracchini is Professor of Neurogenetics and Genomics at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Her research focuses on identifying the genetic components of dyslexia and related neurodevelopmental disorders, and handedness.
SPEAKER
Dr Samuel Warne
Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Public Health, University of St Andrews
Samuel Warne is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Public Health and Behavioural Medicine at the University of St Andrews. One of his current projects is working with Dyslexia Scotland to explore the connection between Specific Learning Difficulties and mental health challenges.
SPEAKER
Hannah Axon
Policy Manager at COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities)
Hannah Axon is a Policy Manager for COSLA, working closely with the Scottish Government in the fields of mental health, wellbeing and neurodevelopment. She recently supported the creation of our national Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and sits on the Children and Young People’s Neurodevelopment Taskforce.
SPEAKER
Trevor Thomson
Founder and Managing Director of Rebel Loop Studios
Trevor Thomson is the Founder and Managing Director of Rebel Loop Studios, a video production company specialising in cinematic storytelling for organisations and cultural projects. He sits on the panel as a representative of those with lived experiences of Specific Learning difficulties.
CHAIR
Pennie Stuart
Journalist, Broadcaster and Director at Adventurous Audio Ltd
Pennie Stuart is a broadcaster and podcast journalist with a knack for bringing stories to life. She has a fantastic track record of exploring the science behind everyday experiences, particularly during her Radio Scotland 'Brainwaves' series.
About the Curious festival
The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!
Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.
You can check out the full programme of events here.
Accessibility
We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact [email protected]. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.
- Step-free access: Ramped access for visitors is available via 26 George Street through Lakeland. Upon arrival, please call 0131 240 5000 and a member of staff will meet you and guide you to the event. Please note that the entrance ramp has a steep gradient (1:12).
- Wheelchair spaces: If you would like to book a space as a wheelchair user, please select the ticket type 'wheelchair space ticket' during the booking process. If this is sold out, please contact the Curious team on [email protected].
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Where is it happening?
GBP 0.00
