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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How about WORK?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
San Diego, CA

What kind of jobs are epileptics most likely to get (and KEEP)? I have found that I can always GET the job, but my medical condition gets me kicked out.

February 12
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Answer Summary

Members shared their real-world experiences finding and keeping work while living with epilepsy, with many noting that desk jobs, remote work,... Read more

Members shared their real-world experiences finding and keeping work while living with epilepsy, with many noting that desk jobs, remote work, retail, and government positions offered the most stability and accommodation. Several members highlighted helpful protections like FMLA and disability rights in government roles, while others described challenges including memory loss, physical limitations, and seizures that affected their ability to work. A recurring theme was that a supportive employer matters just as much as the type of job, and many encouraged each other to stay positive and keep advocating for themselves.

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I've had epilepsy since 2005. The first job I held was in 2013. I worked PT as a shelving assistant for a community college library. I worked there for 8 years. My second (current) job- since 2022- is FT as an accounting administrator for an automotive company.

February 12 (edited)
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I'd say desk jobs are best. I worked 41 years. The first 10 years were at a bank. The last 31 were for the federal government. I was an accountant.

February 15
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I agree with you, I have that happen to but hang in there and try to stay pos, I do and so can you, amen

February 14
MyEpilepsyTeam

What types of jobs work best for people with epilepsy, especially when keeping a job has been challenging?

It's frustrating when you can get hired but struggle to stay employed due to seizures. The good news is that people with epilepsy work successfully across many different industries - there isn't one specific type of job Show Full Answer

What types of jobs work best for people with epilepsy, especially when keeping a job has been challenging?

It's frustrating when you can get hired but struggle to stay employed due to seizures. The good news is that people with epilepsy work successfully across many different industries - there isn't one specific type of job that's "best" for everyone.

What matters most is finding work that accommodates your specific seizure patterns and triggers. Consider these factors when job hunting:

* Jobs with flexible schedules that allow rest after seizures
* Positions where you can work from home if needed
* Roles that don't involve operating heavy machinery or working at heights if you have convulsive seizures
* Workplaces with understanding supervisors and supportive colleagues

Workplace Protections

Under the Americans With Disabilities Act, employers with 15+ employees must provide reasonable accommodations for epilepsy. This might include modified schedules, additional breaks, or workspace adjustments.

Disclosure Strategy

A MyEpilepsyTeam member shared: "I didn't disclose at work and then had my first full-blown grand mal in front of my new colleagues after seven years without one! Kind of freaked them out and it was much more of a drama than if they had known beforehand! Now everyone knows and it's no big deal when anything happens."

Consider discussing your needs with HR to get proper accommodations in place. Having your doctor document how epilepsy affects you can help secure necessary workplace support.

February 12
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Thanks, Mantle!

February 15

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