Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that, according to the NHS, affects up to 1 in every 10 people in the UK to some extent.
The BBC science documentary Inside Our Minds launched its new episodes on May 12, 2025. Presented by Chris Packham, the show explores the experiences of people with ADHD and dyslexia, following the success of Inside Our Autistic Minds. Viewers outside the UK can watch it using a VPN.
Chris Packham’s latest documentary, Inside Our Dyslexic Minds, sheds light on a learning difficulty that affects millions across the UK. In the programme, the 64-year-old presenter meets people living with dyslexia to better understand how the condition impacts their daily lives.
Dyslexia primarily affects reading, writing, and spelling skills. It doesn’t reflect a person’s intelligence but rather how their brain processes language. This can make tasks like word decoding and writing more difficult. The NHS estimates that up to “One in every 10 people in the UK has some degree of dyslexia.” TV chef Jamie Oliver has also spoken publicly about his experience with dyslexia, crediting the condition for enhancing his creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Packham, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 44, has a personal link to dyslexia through his stepdaughter, Megan McCubbin. Despite being told by a teacher that she’d never achieve a science degree due to her dyslexia, McCubbin proved them wrong and pursued zoology at Liverpool University.
This evening’s episode follows Packham’s earlier documentary, Inside Our ADHD Minds, where he explored the lived experiences of people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Dr Jon Rainford, a Lecturer in Childhood and Youth Studies at The Open University, served as the academic consultant for this latest series, helping ensure both conditions were portrayed accurately and sensitively.
Having lived experience of both ADHD and dyslexia and working with a primarily neurodivergent production team, this has enabled the development of a rich and sensitively portrayed series which really captures the nuance of what it means to be dyslexic or have ADHD,
he said
While mixing up letter order and slow writing are widely recognised signs of dyslexia, there are also lesser-known symptoms that often go unnoticed.
Five lesser-known symptoms of dyslexia
1. Struggles with time management, memory and organisation
The British Dyslexia Foundation notes that people with dyslexia may struggle to remember meetings, appointments, dates, or events. Time management can also be a challenge.
For instance, they might frequently misplace items like keys or become easily distracted by their surroundings, which can disrupt their daily routine.
To manage these difficulties, the foundation recommends using mobile phone reminders and calendar alerts, or requesting meeting reminders from the organiser. Having a designated spot for personal belongings can also be helpful.
2. Difficulty with self expression
According to the foundation, people with dyslexia may not only need extra time to respond to questions but also often find it hard to keep up with their own thoughts.
It’s important for others to give them the space to process and organise their thoughts, showing understanding and patience.
In many cases, pauses in conversation simply mean they’re thinking through their response or trying to recall information—not that they’re being unresponsive.
3. Struggle with direction
People with dyslexia may feel anxious about visiting unfamiliar places or finding their way to a destination, and they can often get lost. Following or giving directions—especially using “right” and “left”—can be particularly challenging.
To make navigation easier, the foundation advises avoiding terms like “right” and “left” when giving directions and using more detailed descriptions instead. For individuals with dyslexia, tools like GPS or SatNav can be incredibly helpful.
4. Low self-esteem in social settings
Many people with dyslexia often feel uncomfortable or anxious in social settings, worried they might say something wrong. As a result, they may avoid these situations or appear more reserved. Tasks like reading menus can also feel especially challenging or sensitive.
The foundation recommends being open about having dyslexia, as it can help others understand and offer support. It’s equally important for those around them to respond with patience and kindness.
5. Tiredness
Due to the mental effort required to remember, process information, and communicate, people with dyslexia can experience fatigue — which may, in turn, intensify their symptoms.
Source: Yahoo