The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

Looking for Advice.

Fri, 01/03/2020 - 08:49
I'm a 15 year old girl that has epilepsy... obviously. Right now it feels like my world is crashing down around me. Advice to get myself out of this dark hole?

Comments

Having epilepsy and needing

Submitted by birdman on Sat, 2020-01-04 - 20:06
Having epilepsy and needing to take medication every day can be very discouraging.  Also the condition is commonly known to have effects on brain chemistry that can cause depression.  Don't feel bad about asking for help from a doctor at this point.  Nobody wants to have to take another pill, but antidepressants can have great and positive effect.Mike

Hi, Thank you for posting.

Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2020-01-06 - 08:56
Hi, Thank you for posting. Being diagnosed with epilepsy can be upsetting and make you feel isolated and alone. However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and we are here to help support you. If you ever need to speak with someone please contact our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline, where trained information specialists are available to answer your questions, offer help, hope, support, guidance, and access to national and local resources.1-800-332-1000, or contactus@efa.org. epilepsy.com/helpline   One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. Learn more about your community support resources and living with epilepsy as a young adult, here: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy/social-concerns https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/youth/young-adults It is common for those living with epilepsy to experience feelings of depression. As Michael mentioned in his comment, it’s important that you continue to address those challenges with your healthcare team, as well as any changes in changes in seizure types, frequency, behaviors, sides effects & symptoms. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsyIt is also important to recognize that epilepsy is more than just seizures, overall well-being and emotional health is just as important:  https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/emotional-health   The Wellness Institute:  epilepsy.com/wellness  ,has many helpful and easy-to-use tips & resources for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and maximizing the quality of life for you & your family.  For practical & effective strategies to enhance your well-being, learn more here:  https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/toolbox/wellness-support-tools

The best thing for me as a

Submitted by Misjoey101 on Fri, 2020-01-24 - 17:57
The best thing for me as a kid(diagnosed before I was one), was to find ANYONE else my age with some sort of disability. Someone else that felt odd and outcasted in elementary school. Then we were like each other's therapists. Find someone you can talk to that ACTUALLY understands what you're going through.

Sign Up for Emails

Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news, stories from the community, and more.