Living with Epilepsy: Understanding Epilepsy and Its Impact

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide, yet it is often misunderstood.
In South Africa, many people living with epilepsy still face stigma, limited awareness, and uncertainty about where to find support.
Epilepsy awareness plays a vital role in improving understanding, reducing fear, and ensuring that individuals and families feel supported. By learning more about epilepsy, communities can help create safer, more inclusive environments. By empowering individuals, we create the necessary support needed for better health outcomes and quality of life.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and is characterised by recurrent seizures. These seizures occur due to sudden changes in electrical activity in the brain.
Epilepsy is:

• Not contagious.
• Not a mental illness. 
• A condition that can affect people of all ages. 

With the right medical care, education, and support, many people living with epilepsy can lead active, meaningful lives.

Understanding Seizures and Epilepsy Symptoms

What Are Seizures?

A seizure is a temporary disturbance in brain activity. Seizures can look very different from one person to another and may vary in frequency and intensity.

Not all seizures involve convulsions. Some may be subtle and last only a short time, while others may be more noticeable.

Common Epilepsy Symptoms

Symptoms can include:

• Brief loss of awareness or responsiveness.
• Changes in movement or muscle control.
• Sensory changes, such as unusual sensations.
• Temporary confusion or disorientation.

Understanding that epilepsy presents differently in everyone is key to reducing misunderstanding and fear.

What Causes Epilepsy

In some cases, epilepsy may be linked to factors such as:

• Brain injury or trauma.
• Stroke or infection.
• Genetic influences. 

However, for many people, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. Importantly, epilepsy is not caused by lifestyle choices, stress, or personal behaviour.

Living With Epilepsy

Living with epilepsy can affect more than physical health. It may influence daily routines, employment, emotional wellbeing, and independence.

For some individuals and families, epilepsy can bring uncertainty or anxiety, particularly around safety, social situations, and long-term wellbeing. However, with proper care, education, and support, many people manage their condition successfully and maintain a good quality of life.

Raising awareness helps communities better understand epilepsy and support those living with the condition without judgement or stigma.

The Importance of Support and Understanding

Support plays a crucial role in the lives of people affected by epilepsy. This includes:

• Family and caregiver support.
• Understanding in schools and workplaces.
• Access to appropriate healthcare and rehabilitation services.

Education and awareness empower communities to respond with compassion and confidence, helping individuals with epilepsy feel safe, respected, and included.

Epilepsy Care and Rehabilitation

For some people, epilepsy may be associated with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges, especially after seizures or related neurological events.
Physical rehabilitation and post-acute care can support:

• Functional recovery.
• Confidence and independence.
• Emotional wellbeing.
• Improved quality of life.

An integrated, interdisciplinary approach ensures that care is personalised and focused on the individual’s needs, abilities, and goals.

Epilepsy in South Africa

Epilepsy affects thousands of South Africans across all communities. While awareness has improved, misconceptions and stigma still exist.

Access to education, appropriate care, and rehabilitation services is essential in supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy. National awareness initiatives and community education help promote understanding, dignity, and inclusion.

Building Awareness for Better Tomorrows…

Epilepsy awareness is about more than information; it’s about creating understanding, compassion, and support.
By learning about epilepsy and challenging misconceptions, we can help ensure that people living with epilepsy feel seen, supported, and empowered to live fulfilling lives.

At Nurture Health, we believe that education, integrated care, and compassionate support help enable better tomorrows for individuals, families, and communities.