Ask quietly what works for me
Focus on my life and not just seizures or epilepsy.
Ask me personally.
What is your race?
Ask me in person.
I can't do that. I don't have enough money to fly to London.
Ask me face to face.
Can you see Zoom?
I'm listening.
September 20
Managing epilepsy and emotional pain together can feel overwhelming, but there are many personal coping strategies that others have found helpful. Here's a summary of approaches that tend to make a real difference:
Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
- Talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe unhelpful thought Show Full Answer
Managing epilepsy and emotional pain together can feel overwhelming, but there are many personal coping strategies that others have found helpful. Here's a summary of approaches that tend to make a real difference:
Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
- Talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe unhelpful thought patterns
- Journaling to process feelings and sort through emotions
- Mindfulness and meditation practices to reduce stress
- Scheduling regular check-ins with a therapist to monitor anxiety or low mood
Physical Wellbeing
- Regular exercise, which can improve mood and may support seizure control (though check with your doctor first, as exercise affects everyone differently)
- Prioritizing good sleep, since poor sleep can worsen both seizures and emotional health
- Staying hydrated and avoiding known triggers like smoking
Social & Spiritual Support
- Leaning on trusted friends and family — letting them help without letting them take over
- Staying connected through calls, texts, or visits
- Engaging with a faith or mindfulness community if that resonates with you One MyEpilepsyTeam member put it simply: "Self-care is very important. I play music and it's a lifeline for me." Another shared, "Be able to say no, pace yourself, and work within your limits."
The key takeaway is that small, consistent steps matter more than big changes all at once. Staying on your treatment plan while layering in these lifestyle strategies can make a meaningful difference over time.
September 4