Beyond Seizure Control

Dealing with active seizures is often not the only issue that people with epilepsy face.

There are other, related lifestyle problems that can have a big impact. Fortunately, some of them can be treated. For example:

Mood disorders, especially depression and anxiety, are common in people with epilepsy. They may be part of the condition itself. Or they may be made worse by epilepsy-related problems like not being able to drive, fears of having a seizure, difficulties with employment, and the challenge of coping with other people’s lack of understanding concerning epilepsy.

Many doctors don’t bring up these issues directly, so it’s up to you to do so if they are a problem.

For example, if depression is clouding your life, tell your doctor.

It may be a side effect of your medication. It may be related to a chemical imbalance in your brain or even to some of the same conditions that cause seizures.

If the medications are at fault, a change in medicines may help.

If other factors are involved, the good news is that depression in people with epilepsy can be treated just as it can in other people – with medications, and with talk therapy.

You don’t have to settle for long term feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Ask for treatment or referral to a professional in the field.

• Memory difficulties and sleep disorders are also common in people with epilepsy, and they, too, should be discussed with your doctor. If he or she doesn’t raise the issue, you should.
• Other issues of daily life – especially dealing with unemployment and other people’s prejudices — can add to the burden of having active epilepsy.

Share these problems with your doctor and ask for referral to sources of help. It might be a self-help group, perhaps, or a therapist who can help you talk through the problems you are having and develop better coping skills. Visit the Epilepsy Foundation’s website to find your local Epilepsy Foundation and to learn more about the Jeanne A. Carpenter Epilepsy Legal Defense Fund.