Epilepsy can take a toll on your mental health. Sometimes, circumstances are stressful and maybe you are going through a rough patch. According to The Epilepsy Foundation, adults 18 and older are twice as likely to experience depression anxiety, and other mental health or mood disorders. Symptoms include lack of sleep, changes in medication, and even the season. Another 20% may have underlying mental health issues including depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know is feeling more than "out of it", please know there are plenty of resources to help you. You can reach out to epilepsy organizations. Some great ones are The Anita Kaufmann Foundation and The Epilepsy Network. You can talk to your doctor about other options such as talk therapy.
Other activities you can do to "improve your mood against the epilepsy blues":
- Going for a walk
- Talking to friends
- Painting or drawing
- Read a good book
- Journal or write
- Listen to relaxing music
- Watch a favorite program
- Attend an event (art show, music show, spa day)
- Exercise
- Play with pets
- Enjoy the outdoors or visit a garden
- Take up a hobby!
For more information on mental health and epilepsy, or tips on how you can reduce the stress that triggers your seizures, please visit these fine websites:
https://www.defeatingepilepsy.org
https://www.whiteswanfoundation.org/mental-health-matters/body-and-mind/epilepsy-and-mental-health
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17116032/
https://www.epilepsy.com/stories/support-resources-epilepsy-mental-health
Tips to manage epilepsy and live fully.