Seizures - Coping & Communicating
Seizures and emotional concerns
About 25% to 75% of adults with epilepsy show signs of depression. They also have a higher than average risk for suicide. The most common emotional responses are the following:
 Fear of the unexpected seizure
Acute humiliation after a seizure, particularly if incontinence occurs
Feelings of alienation at work and in social situations
Emotional difficulties increase if epilepsy becomes chronic. In one study, the intensity of the negative emotional response was directly related to the intensity and frequency of the attacks.
Many patients with epilepsy and parents whose children have epilepsy can benefit from support associations, which are usually free and available in most cities.
Therapies for children and adults with seizures
Because of the risks for serious emotional consequences, psychological therapy may be beneficial and even necessary for some adults and children with seizures. In one study cognitive behavioral therapy was helpful in lowering seizure rates in young people with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. This approach offers a structured counseling program that helps people change behaviors that can reduce risk factors, such as anxiety and insomnia, for seizures.
|
E-mail this page