Break the stigma – Epilepsy is real

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Seizures are due to brief disturbances in the electrical functions of the brain. Epilepsy affects people of all ages.

Talking about their illness and not hiding it is extremely important. Access to healthcare, early diagnosis and treatment can be a lot helpful. Promoting more educational campaigns will increase awareness among the general community and they will understand this condition better. The stigma related issues will also decrease if people are more aware of epilepsy as a condition. Another aspect of stigma is the fact that people suffering from epilepsy have a low self-esteem and low selfconfidence, they refrain from mixing with people in the society and self-isolate themselves. They also at times do not adhere to the treatment. Stigma also has a deep influence on the caregivers. The misconceptions of epilepsy can dissuade caregivers from offering proper services to the families of people who are affected with epilepsy.

Epilepsy is just like any other disorder. More awareness among the general community needs to be emphasized. Educational campaigns to increase basic information about epilepsy and promoting awareness campaigns will be a big help in increasing understanding

Dr Abhishek Gupta,

MCh Neurosurgeon, KRM hospital and Research centre, Vijyant khand, Gomti nagar, Lucknow

about epilepsy. People affected with this condition need to be encouraged to participate in activities in consultation with their doctors, so that they too feel that they are able to live a productive and fulfilling life. Being diagnosed with epilepsy is not the end. There are various treatment options available today. Don’t hide under the shadows of epilepsy. It’s time to break the barrier and the stigma and speak up.

PHOTO: HTCS