Home » Health & Wellness » Seizure Disorders » Depression and Epilepsy

Depression and Epilepsy

© Lina Jo Gilliland

Severe depression occurs in approximately 20% of all people with epilepsy. There are several reasons for this depression. There is considerable physical and psychological stress associated with having and living with seizures. Many of the medications used to treat seizure disorders can trigger depressive episodes themselves. Dilantin, Phenobarbatol, Celonton and Tegretol are all notorious for this side effect. Also many postictal phases involve depression which can last from several days to two weeks. The suicide rate among epileptic individuals is five times as high as the normal population. One study polled stated that 80% of the patients with epilepsy were also diagnosed as having a depressive disorder. Upwards of 60% of these individuals had a history of significant episodes of depression. Depression affects the whole body;the emotions, thoughts and behaviours of a person. It can interfere with a person's ability to work and interact with people, including family members. Depression is a deep intense feeling that never lifts. The most persistent mood is sadness, but anxiety and irritability may also be present. The ability to experience pleasure is gone. There is a sense of hopelessness; insignificant events can be experienced as irritating and even anxiety filled.

It is very difficult to pull yourself out of this pattern alone. It is often necessary for family members to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an episode in order for the patient to get proper medical treatment. Epilepsy cause's significant alteration to an individual's lifestyle, socially, psychologically and vocationally. This, compounded with the side effect of medications or with seizures, can lead to anxiety, depression and/or suicidal tendencies. A lack of interest in the persons physical appearance,difficulties in making decisions and sleep disturbances are usually first indications of depression. A skilled psychotherapist can help tremendously in bringing a patient through this cycle and in helping them to understand their illness in a broader perspective.

The toll that untreated depression can take is great, not only in terms of personal happiness , but also in its impact on family, work and psychological health. With treatment, a significant number of depressed persons improve dramatically within 3-4 months of starting psychotherapy and/or antidepressant medication. The best hope for recovery and management of depression comes from early detection and treatment. Treatment can range from psychotherapy, antidepressive medication or switching seizure medications if they are determined to be a culprit.

It is important to pay close attention to your behaviors once you have started a new seizure medication and make others aware as well. Many of these medications, especially in young children, do cause depression, self inflicting behaviors and suicide. If you or a family member notice any changes report them immediately to your neurologist.

The copyright of the article Depression and Epilepsy in Seizure Disorders is owned by . Permission to republish Depression and Epilepsy in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.