Impact of Epilepsy

 

Psychological impacts

When first diagnosed to have epilepsy, patient often has feelings of uncertainty and being out of control. Denial of having the condition is inevitable. The public's misconception and discrimination is mainly the root to most psychological problems-keeping their epilepsy a secret, lowered self-esteem and self-confidence, feelings of anger, frustration, embarrassment and vulnerability may develop. Increased levels of anxiety and depression are also more common.

As for friends and family having loved one with epilepsy, it is normal for them to go through feelings of fear, grief, loss, guilt, anger, and frustration when the diagnosis is first made. They may find it difficult to deal with seizures and intolerable towards public's ignorant and prejudice. They may become "overprotective" or restrictive of their relative/friend's activities. If the person with epilepsy is a child , their siblings may feel left out, afraid, or be made to feel overly responsible for the safety of their brother or sister. Parents who have children with epilepsy may have concerns about how their children will cope with their seizures. Beside if it occur in a teenager, issues of independent and concerns about the future may arise affecting the family dynamics. Maintaining friendships or intimate relationships (dating) may encounter lack of understanding or sensitivity of their conditions and hinder their progress. 

                                                                                                  

Social Relationship

Generally, the public is still ignorant with epilepsy and so seizures are often being unrecognized and mishandled. Misconception and fear about this condition often result in prejudice and discrimination against people with epilepsy. Fearing of a negative response, people often tend to keep their epilepsy a secret. This is more true in people with epilepsy not well-controlled as they cannot drive, be socially active or even be independent. The unpredictability nature of seizures in term of timing, severity and duration can very much limit the social activities a person with epilepsy. Dating, sex life, marriage and starting up a family can be even more difficult. If above-all is not true, family and friends may be over protective or impose excessive restriction leading to isolation and social problems.

When job is concerned, employers often discriminate against people with epilepsy such that they have difficulty getting a job or even keeping one. And even if they got a job, it is often below their qualification or experience as many was viewed as disabled individuals. As a result, it become an anxiety to whether to disclose one's epilepsy to the employer during time of employment.

Just say NO to discrimination on job!

 

Lifestyle Changes

Read about notes on general living, playing of sports, driving,  employment and pregnancy while taking the necessary precautions to avoid seizure.                                                                                  

 

 

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