Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
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.
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Albuquerque, NM

Yesterday at my appointment I was reading the paperwork, and it had all these agreements about not cooking on a flame, not driving, not using sharp knives, etc. I understand safety is important, but it also hit me hard. I've always been very independent. Now I have to rely on someone to drive me places, can't sleep by myself, etc. It's overwhelming.

June 19
 · 
Reactions
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I’m a very independent person. Unfortunately, I had to go back to living with my parents, so I feel lucky enough that they’re taking care of me!

June 19
MyEpilepsyTeam

What you're feeling is completely valid, and you're definitely not alone in this. Many people with epilepsy go through a grieving process when they realize their daily routines need to change. It's a big adjustment, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed by it.

A MyEpilepsyTeam member put it really well: "It's not fun or easy not Show Full Answer

What you're feeling is completely valid, and you're definitely not alone in this. Many people with epilepsy go through a grieving process when they realize their daily routines need to change. It's a big adjustment, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed by it.

A MyEpilepsyTeam member put it really well: "It's not fun or easy not having the independence to drive myself places, and I struggle with it on a daily basis, but I have figured out that keeping myself and others out of danger is more important."

That doesn't mean the feelings go away — it just means they become more manageable over time. Some things that have helped others in similar situations include:

- Focusing on what you can control — small acts of self-care like a walk, journaling, or alone time can restore a sense of ownership over your life
- Letting go gradually — it's a process, not a switch. Be patient with yourself
- Reframing where possible — one MyEpilepsyTeam member noted that not driving actually saved money and came with unexpected perks (hello, being chauffeured everywhere! 🚗)
- Leaning on others for non-caregiving tasks — friends or family can help with errands, giving you back some breathing room

The restrictions can feel like walls closing in at first, but many people find ways to rebuild independence within their new boundaries. It takes time, and that's okay.

June 19
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
My whole life has been that very same way. I’m in my 40’s and have lived with my parents my whole life as I cannot drive or do other things that are a risk if I were to have a seizure. So my parents have driven me everywhere my whole life so I’ve never even had independence living with epilepsy since I was 10 years old.

June 19 (edited)
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I do not know what a Crashout is, so do not know if I had one.

June 19
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Katrina, I am living in Elderly Housing with an apartment. As I cannot cook, and am very disorganized, Verna, my Caretaker comes in 3 days a week for 3 hours. She tries to keep things organized. I missed a 15 minute appointment with my GP for a follow-up. He did not charge the $75 Doctors charge if you miss them. I also have a Trustee and a Conservator who are responsible for my health, general well-being and money. She pays many of my Bills.

June 19

Related Questions

View All
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Houston, TX

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Boca Raton, FL

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
London, UK