Epilepsy: Coping With Seizures And Stress
Epilepsy: Coping WithSeizures and StressGILBERT A.W. WOO, MS, MFTIMENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST
Outline1. Let’s talk about stress!2. Mind and body3. Emotional health4. Seizure Stress Cycle5. Stress management6. Mental health support7. Q & A8. Jeanette Hilgert, LCSWCaregiver Support CoordinatorSFVA Social Work Services
Raise your hand if you know what this feels like
Common Stressors of Having EpilepsyLife can be a daily struggle.Seizures happen anytime / anywhere.Feels like a constant state of alert / hyperarousal.Affects loved ones (family, partners, children, parents, friends, etc.)Body hurts.Head hurts.Taking medications.Side effects.Lack of control.Lack of independence.Can’t drive.Can’t work.Can’t go to school.Can’t concentrate / focus.Bad memory.Loss of energy.Loss of motivation.And many many many more
Mind and Body
True or False?People with epilepsy andseizures are more prone topsychological, behavioral,and emotional problems.
Emotional HealthThe most common mental health disorders experienced bypeople living with epilepsy:1) Depression2) Dysthymia3) Anxiety4) Bipolar disorder5) ADHD (more prominent in children and adolescents)6) Personality disorders
WHY?
3 Likely Answers1) Epilepsy and seizures may change the waycertain brain chemicals, neurotranmitters(e.g., serotonin), function. Theseneurotranmitters are directly responsible forfeelings, emotions, and behaviors.2) Medications3) Stress (personal, home, family, relationships,children, financial, work, school, etc.) canlead to unhealthy coping behaviors
Seizure Stress Cycle (SSC)STRESSMOODnegativethinkingSEIZURE
SSCSTRESSMOODnegativethinkingSEIZURE
Stress Management-THE BASICS!-Sleep / Rest-Physical Activity / Exercise-Nutrition / Diet-Identify your triggers-What tends to cause your seizures?-What (or who) tends to bring about stress in your life?
Stress Management-Relaxation exercises-Deep breathing-Somatic (Body) techniques-Yoga, Tai Chi, Progressive Relaxation, Massage, Acupressure, etc.-Mindfulness techniques-Meditation-Mental imagery-Pleasant relaxing scene at the start of your seizure to make them less intense-Self-awareness-Check in with your inner dialogue; be present in the here and now only
Stress Management-Create a daily/weekly routine and stick to it-Organize your life-Set priorities; set short-term and long-term goals-Manage your time/schedule-Make lists, keep a calendar, plan ahead-Positive Outlook-Recognize the things you can’t change and don't focus on them-Recognize the things you have already changed and can change-Sense of humor-Help support others-Join a group/club or volunteer-Take up a hobby that you’re good at and enjoy doing
Mental Health SupportASK FOR SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT! Talk to someone about –––––your stress, problems, worriesthe disappointment you feel after a seizureyour frustration at having to pace yourself slower than othersthe feeling of not being “normal” like everyone elsethe anger or irritation you get from having to take all of your medications andtheir side effectsDON’T BE AFRAID TO GET PROFESSIONAL HELP! Psychotherapy (counseling) Support groups
PsychotherapyTypesPsychoanalytic (Freud), psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral,mindfulness-based, short-term, long-term, etc.ModalitiesIndividual (child, adolescent, adult), couples, family, groupCounselors-Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and FamilyTherapist, Psychologist, Psychiatrist***Find the right counselor for YOU***
Group SupportLiving With EpilepsyOpen to all adults with epilepsy and anycaregivers, families, and friends.Every 2nd Monday of the month11am-12:30pmSFVA Epilepsy CenterThis Monday 9/12
Take Home MessagePeople living with epilepsy can lead ahealthy and happy life!- Think positive- Build a supportive environment- Practice self-care- Be patient with yourself; changedoesn’t happen over night
Thank you!
Epilepsy: Coping With Seizures and Stress GILBERT A.W. WOO, MS, MFTI MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST. Outline 1.Let’s talk about stress! 2. Mind and body 3. Emotional health 4. Seizure Stress Cycle 5. Stress management 6. Men
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