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Psychological Effects of being Diagnosed with Epilepsy

© Lina Jo Gilliland

After a diagnosis of epilepsy is made there is a series of stages that the individual experiences, which are essential to their acceptance of this condition. What most family members and friends fail to understand is that these emotions cannot be rushed and that these feelings are to be expected.

For a person to come to accept this condition and its limitations takes on average, 2-3 years. This often seems unrealistic to those living around the person. The impact seizure disorders have on the life of a person is tremendous! Often it includes the loss of a job, the sudden inability to drive, and the total loss of control over their lives. Below I will explore the primary stages experienced by most people which have been diagnosed with a seizure disorder.

Fear: This is often due to the uncertainty of the impact on their future and the stigma associated with seizures.

Denial: This is a big one! The person refuses to believe that their life has been altered and they cannot continue as before. This is one of the longest lingering stages.

Frustration: This goes hand in hand with denial. Your body no longer functions as it should. You have no control over what it will do and when. You find yourself relying on others for help with what was once a simple task for you.

Anger: The people around you often don't understand why you have become so angry. This emotion results from the fact you feel as though something has been taken from you. It also comes from the lack of understanding exhibited from people. This should not be confused with moodiness from medication. This is justifiable anger not an irrational one.

Devastation: This comes about when you have finally realized that your goals and plans may no longer be attainable. It is intensified by financial stress when you lose your job or may no longer be able to work.

Grief: Each person has this emotion. It is a result of devastation. Grieving over the loss of your life as you knew it entails more than you think and can last a considerable amount of time. Until you have reached this stage, you will find it difficult to accept your condition.

Ability to cope: The realization that the medical profession does not have all the answers! People must look inside of themselves to find what helps them best. Educating themselves and finding support groups is often of considerable help.

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