How You Can Help
Keep in mind that a large majority of people living with epilepsy are helped by antiseizure medicines or other treatments, and some may go months or years between seizures. Most people with epilepsy can lead fulfilling, satisfying lives.
Learn all you can
Knowledge is power. From counseling to government aid, there's a wealth of information available to help those living with epilepsy. You can research online, visit the bookstore or local library, or ask your doctor or local government chapters about such support groups and programs. You also can find a support group through the Epilepsy Foundation, the American Epilepsy Society, or Epilepsy.com.
Being proactive and getting involved are ways to maximize your ability to help someone with epilepsy.
What to do for a seizure
- Call for medical help immediately.
- Stay with the person until the seizure ends.
- Do not restrict the person from moving unless he or she is in danger.
- Do not put anything into the person's mouth, not even medicine or liquid. These can cause choking or damage to the person's jaw, tongue, or teeth. Contrary to widespread belief, people cannot swallow their tongues during a seizure or any other time.
- Gently roll the person on his or her side to prevent choking on any fluids or vomit.
- Cushion the person's head
- Loosen any tight clothing around the neck.
- Keep the person's airway open. If necessary, grip the person's jaw gently and tilt his or her head back.
- Remove any sharp or solid objects that the person might hit during the seizure.
- Note how long the seizure lasts and what symptoms occurred so you can tell a doctor or emergency personnel if necessary.
Understand the challenges
It may help to understand some of the general issues that a person with epilepsy may face:- Unpredictability of seizures
- Feelings of anxiety about having a seizure in an embarrassing or difficult situation
- Over-focusing on "warning signs" in an attempt to predict when a seizure might occur
- Job discrimination
- Financial concerns
- Concerns about driving restrictions
- Interference with enjoyable activities due to safety concerns
- Fear of injury or death during a seizure
- Worry about the effect that seizures may have on intelligence, memory, and learning
- Increased risk of depression or anxiety
- Worry about side effects of antiseizure medicines and how they may interfere with lifestyle goals
Epilepsy affects the whole family
It's not uncommon for people with epilepsy, especially children, to develop behavioral and emotional problems. Sometimes these problems are caused by epilepsy itself, or embarrassment, frustration, or fear of having another seizure.
You can help by encouraging a positive outlook and independence. Don't reward negative behavior with unusual amounts of attention, and try to stay tuned to the person's needs and feelings. Learn to accept and live with the seizure disorder without placing blame or encouraging resentment.