Epilepsy is a condition often misunderstood. Although people may recognize the name, they may not understand the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the condition. The stigma surrounding epilepsy is so common that it often prevents epilepsy patients from getting appropriate treatment, maintaining a healthy social life, and finding work.
Education and awareness are so important in bringing people together and educating the public to break these stigmas about epilepsy.
Cassidy Megan thought the same, and that is why, in 2015, she started Epilepsy Awareness day. As the original Purple Shirt Ambassador, she and her team work to spread awareness about epilepsy and give a platform for those with the condition. Epilepsy Awareness day has transformed into a worldwide event. With over 100 countries participating, Cassidy Megan has worked with politicians, celebrities, educators and businesses to give individuals with epilepsy a worldwide platform!
Why is purple the colour for epilepsy?
The colour purple was selected by Cassidy Megan herself, when she began the campaign, as a symbol that those with epilepsy were not alone. Cassidy is an ambassador herself and encourages everyone to wear a purple shirt this March 26, 2022, in support of Epilepsy Awareness Day.
Alongside this lovely pop of colour, lavender, is also the internationally recognized flower for epilepsy. Its calming effects have been said to be a relaxing agent for the central nervous system, calling the brain waves, something that is also central to the treatment of epilepsy.
Why do we celebrate National Epilepsy Day?
There are a lot of misconceptions about epilepsy. And because it is so misunderstood, for people with the condition, sometimes the stigmas around epilepsy can be harder to deal with than the seizures themselves. The unfortunate reality of this is that this stops individuals with epilepsy from leading healthy social lives, continuing their education, and even finding jobs.
That is why taking an opportunity to celebrate national epilepsy day is important in raising awareness, educating the public, changing the narrative around the condition, and providing resources for those in need.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to proper treatment. Whether it is poverty, lack of education, or lack of resources, leaving epilepsy untreated can result in more frequent and more severe seizures.
Epilepsy treatment and misconceptions in different countries
Did you know that 8 of 10 individuals with epilepsy in developing countries do not receive appropriate treatment for epilepsy? Over 85% of the 35 million people with epilepsy in developing countries receive no treatment. This is because the condition is highly misunderstood and stigmatized.
The stigmatization of epilepsy in different countries is in part due to the fear of contagion from body fluids such as saliva, that can be emitted during a seizure.
The education of healthcare workers in these countries, and their rural areas, is especially important as they don’t always have the medical equipment to diagnose epilepsy. So understanding the symptoms is lifesaving in these cases.
In Uganda, for example, epilepsy is treated in the mental health sector. This is because some countries believe epilepsy is a mental health condition and not a neurological disorder.
In Saudi Arabia, for example, it is believed that epilepsy is caused by an evil spirit or an evil eye, something that is experienced by someone who is possessed. This has been treated through religious ceremonies, however, we can see the dangers in this.
This misconception is harmful to epilepsy patients as it prolongs medical treatment, which can cause an increase in the severity and frequency of seizures.
This is why it’s so important that Epilepsy Awareness Day exists. To help combat the misinformation and provide resources and treatment for those who don’t have as much access to it.
It is through public campaigns, like Purple Shirt Day, that help change the conversation about epilepsy and provide education on the diagnosis and management of the condition.
This can help various countries establish scientifically proven treatment for the 1 in 100 people who suffer from the condition and help people with the condition begin their journey into getting their lives back and seeking help for their condition.
Not only does this help those with the condition feel understood, but education aids in early treatment options.
Epilepsy resources are important in treating the condition because it gives individuals a roadmap of where to start and what to expect. The more information the better. This kind of support can help an individual feel more confident when approaching treatment options and help encourage them to make lifestyle changes.
When proper treatment is received, individuals with epilepsy can go on to lead happy, fruitful lives.
Epilepsy & Community
What we know about epilepsy as a condition is that it is a treatable neurological disorder. It is a misfiring of brain waves that causes random and unpredictable seizures in patience. These seizures are life-altering but not life-threatening. They can be managed in a variety of ways and treated through medication, lifestyle changes, and counseling. But because epilepsy is an invisible condition, it can be an isolating experience as many lack the support of a community of people who suffer from the same struggles.
With thousands of participants, Epilepsy Awareness Day helps to shed light on what it is like for individuals living with the condition and provide support for those that do. This event is a safe space that encourages those with epilepsy to find a community, and build new relationships with people who can relate to their life experiences without the fear of judgment.
What began in 2015 to help raise awareness about epilepsy has now become an international platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences with a global audience and can inspire others to do the same.
Purple Shirt has become a symbol of hope for ambassadors and those living with the condition. The purple shirt represents strength. Strength in education, strength in resources, and strength in support for everyone dealing with and learning to live with the condition.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for more epilepsy resources, please head over to our blog for additional resources. Here I cover ground on how you can have epilepsy and still lead a very abundant, rewarding life.
As someone who has epilepsy, my first-hand experience can provide you with the resources necessary to overcome, treat and manage the internal struggles with mental health that epilepsy inevitably brings in a safe environment and from someone who knows the system first hand.
If you are thinking about beginning treatment, or are already in the process of managing your mental wellbeing and would like additional resources, please contact me for a free consultation.
