Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of the brain that can affect the behavioral and cognitive functioning of children. A brief and sudden change in the brain function during a seizure activity can alter brain function in a subtle way. Children with epilepsy may have some difficulty with learning, coordination, and in relating to their peers.
Once your child is diagnosed with epilepsy, he (or she) may develop stress and unpleasant feelings about his or her condition. Your child may have questions or resentment toward his newly diagnosed condition, the medications he has to take, and the new regimen involved with having a chronic illness. Additionally, children with epilepsy may feel isolated because of their condition, creating problems with low self-esteem, depression and anger. As a parent, there are things that you can do to help your child cope with epilepsy, such as:
- Talk to your child about his condition and be honest about it. Although it is a chronic condition, epilepsy should not limit your child. Help your child to understand the condition and the importance of taking anticonvulsant medication.
- Talk to your child’s school, too. Sometimes, epilepsy can cause learning difficulties for some children. Your child’s teachers can address this and help your child when he or she is having difficulties in class. The school nurse can ensure your child takes medication (if a dose is required while they are in school) and assist your child if he or she has a seizure while they are at school.
- Have open communication with your child’s healthcare provider – and encourage your child to do the same. This communication is essential in optimal seizure control. Some medications may not work as effectively, or may cause undesirable side effects. If your child’s healthcare provider is aware of any problems your child is having with seizure control or medications, the doctor can make adjustments in your child’s therapy.
- Encourage your child to be open about the condition. Your child may have a seizure at school, and this may cause your child to feel embarrassed about his or her condition, or to feel isolated due to the condition – and the misunderstandings that peers may have. Other parents and counselors at the school may be able to help other students to understand your child’s condition better.
- Knowing other children with a similar condition may help your child to better cope with epilepsy. Check with your healthcare provider or local epilepsy organizations regarding camps or support groups for children around your child’s age.
Sources:
McNelis AM, Buelow J, Myers J, Johnson EA. Concerns and needs of children with epilepsy and their parents. Clin Nurse Spec. 2007; 21(4):195-202.
Baki O, Erdogan A, Kantarci O et al. Anxiety and depression in children with epilepsy and their mothers. Epilepsy & Behavior 2004; 5: 958–964.
