I’ve had suicidal ideation for as long as I can remember, I’ve also had a few attempts in the past. I’m now learning that epilepsy and mental illness are linked in several ways- from where the seizures stem from to the anticonvulsants your prescribed. I also learned that people with epilepsy are up to 5x more likely to commit suicide.
I think about taking my life all the time sadly because of this condition and lack of resources out there for us. Does anyone else feel the same way?
Answer Summary
Members opened up about the deeply personal connection between epilepsy and suicidal thoughts, with many sharing that medications, loss of... Read more
@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member - my heart and my prayers go out to you, my friend. I live with my mom and I worry about having to take care of her when her dementia sets in. I suffered both cranial and spinal trauma as a result of my last seizure event earlier this year. I can no longer work and am having to completely rebuild my life. I have no idea what I’m doing or where to begin. I cannot empathize with your level of suffering, but I can most definitely sympathize. I, too, know what loneliness, isolation, and hopelessness are like. I, too, know what depression is. Unfortunately, I know suicide all too well, through personal failed attempt and my brother’s failed attempts, as well as the ‘successes’ of friends, such as Adam and Chris. You have stated why you no longer want to live, however you are still alive. Why? I’m not being mean. What I’m doing here is offering up a challenge, a project. It is to think about and list or write about all the reasons why you are still alive. Start with the obvious and most basic reasons, but then hopefully you’ll begin to see ‘deeper’ reasons why you’re still here on Earth, as you rightfully should be and are. You, just like each and every one of us, has a one-of-a-kind story to tell that only you can tell. I’m having to start from scratch, so I’ve begun by making a list of things I’m good at & things I like to do. I’m also beginning the process of applying for assistance. The trauma I suffered continues to progress, so I’m scared how much more of my life I’m going to lose. There are days when the pain is overwhelming, and that’s when the thoughts come rushing in. But, I eventually force myself out of those black holes and get back to trying to find my place, my purpose. Some things I’ve been thinking about: taking pictures of nature; marketing my chili; training to become a florist; working part-time in a library; working from home… Hang in there. You’ve come this far, and you’re still here. There’s reason for that. My hope and prayer is that you find it. I think you will. Chances are, you’re going to find it where you least expect it. Either that or it’s staring at you right in front of your face. Peace and blessings always :)
I’ve attempted suicide twice and have thought about it frequently Fortunately I’m still here and I’m now thankful for every day I have. Due to serious illnesses I’ve been close to dying and yet I pulled through and I’m grateful. I no longer wish to die. I’d recommend help from a trained counselor and consider medications if your doctor says it’s okay.
One thing that has helped
Me is to be in nature and look for the beauty in life. Often you’ll find it in the least likely of places or things. But believe me there is beauty all around and it makes life worth living.
Sean2 I am not afraid to die, I feel if I could help then I will know that my life had a purpose. I am not going to have a funeral, I am going to have a celebration of life , and don’t worry there will have people that will miss you. I have a lot of friends that I hung out with, and now just 2 of my friends come and see me. My family. The other people are afraid they going to get in our way, not many people have any idea what we have and there scared, When I see them I tell them the truth. I am staying busy working with my hands and using my brain, I have a hard time with my memory. And I ask them to tell me my past. After they tell me and I think about it I can start to remember. And I always think them they will call me. I think a lot of you Sean2 and I am happy that you are on my team. Thank you Brother you have a purpose to share your thoughts with your team
I think all epilepsy people should be tested for Lyme disease and mold toxicity. They are both linked to possible causes of epilepsy. I found out in 2022 I have both. If I can get those under control I may possibly find a cure for all three. I've suffered from mental illness for half my life including suicide attempts. I was able to rid myself of all meds but my seizures meds. Thank God for His will for my life.
Brandyhill, since AI flags us whenever we type in a specific word, I'll just say _uicide. Like you said and I've read up online, epilepsy and mental illness are linked in several ways. I'm not a professional consoler, so all that I will say regarding that situation is that if you are having those thoughts, then please find someone that you can talk through them. What I can tell you is that ASMs are mind altering drugs and can have the propensity to make one think of _uicide as the way out...IT ISN'T. If anyone is having these types of thoughts after starting a new ASM, contact your doctor's office IMMEDIATLY!
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