Many of the people we interviewed reported feeling anxious and depressed because of their epilepsy. Some had these feelings when they were first diagnosed. Others explained how they felt down or depressed at different stages.
Explains how he feels depressed at different times.
Often, feelings of depression were bound up with a sense of hopelessness and powerlessness. One woman described her feelings of depression, anger and loss of control. Another discussed her feelings of depression and failure. She also recalled the support she’d had from her church group.
Discusses her feelings of depression, anger and loss of control.
Describes her feelings of depression and failure.
Talking to other people and joining support groups helped many people we interviewed to deal with their feelings of anxiety and isolation. Some also recommended counselling (see ‘Sources of support for people with epilepsy‘). Several explained that anti-epileptic drugs can also make people feel depressed.
Explains that anti-epileptic drugs can also make people feel depressed.
Many of those interviewed pointed out that feelings of depression often passed, and discussed how having a positive attitude helped them. One woman discussed her depression and how keeping herself busy and occupied helped.
Explains that a positive attitude has helped.
Discusses her depression and how she keeps herself occupied.
A few people reported feeling suicidal when times were difficult, but often noted how these feelings passed. One woman, who had had a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) implanted, discussed her feelings of depression but also how her life had changed after having surgery for epilepsy.