Epilepsy, Fear, Jealousy, and Acceptance

There is no such thing as a "normal" human being. And there are many different types of seizures and circumstances people are in. Seizures can happen once a day, once a week, or a few times per month. They may stop for a period of time or all together.

There are so many emotions with epilepsy

Even if a person's seizures are well under control, this doesn't mean the person is cured. Having epilepsy, a person could end up in the hospital for numerous reasons. Needing to be in the hospital can cause many different emotions for people and sometimes feelings may change in reaction to the circumstance.

Fear, anger, sadness, depression, or feeling like giving up after going into the hospital for a long period of time can be normal. I must have gone through almost every emotion above.

At first, you may feel like you're different, alone, both, or none of the above. But if you feel like that because of having a seizure, there really isn't a difference between you and a person who does not have epilepsy. In real life, no one is perfect.

It may feel odd to continually be admitted to the hospital and like it is time to give up on yourself as well as your doctor. But as you lie in your room, a team of doctors may be discussing what should be done next to help. It could take a while. Don't give up.

Everyone's epilepsy is different

Jealousy is not good to have if another person's seizures are better controlled than your own. The person may have more difficulties than you may know about. Seizures are not the only outcome of epilepsy. For instance, there may be depression, behavioral changes, mood swings, or bad medication side effects at play.

Today there are many types of treatments, medications, trials, surgeries, and non-invasive implants. Not all people need to be treated the same way, so don't feel alone if epilepsy treatment is something new for you. Who knows, you may receive a treatment that works perfectly for your body and the seizures will end.

My advice for living with epilepsy

Here is some of my advice about navigating epilepsy, for whatever circumstances you are in.

1. Jealousy is of no use. Instead of comparing yourself to others and wishing to be in the same condition, try getting to know people. You could become friends and help each other.
2. Stay calm and more positive about yourself. Try to find a hobby or interest that you can enjoy doing like art, music, writing, reading, or crocheting.
3. Find out what triggers a seizure for you. Avoid these seizure triggers, such as lack of sleep, caffeine, stress, alcohol, sugar, or something else.
4. Remember to love yourself as you love others.

YOU are important

No matter what, faith, love, and believing in yourself are needed. One thing not to do is give up. Take care of yourself the best you can.

All of us have a few similarities but are special in different ways. Everyone is here for a different reason – work on it to get better at it, or simply enjoy it. Follow your dreams. Instead of running away, let's make it to the stars and back, and let's shine like one.