Epilepsy is a condition that affects the way in which the neurons of the brain work. It causes an interruption in the signals sent by the neurons; this abnormal signal results in a seizure. The Epilepsy Foundation estimates that 45,000 children, ages 15 and under, develop epilepsy each year, while 260,000 school-age children are currently diagnosed with it. Learning to live with epilepsy is sometimes the hardest part for these children and their families.
Step 1
Educate yourself. Before you can help your child cope with his diagnosis, you must first learn as much about epilepsy as possible. An enlightening book for parents with detailed questions about epilepsy is "Seizures and Epilepsy in Childhood," by Dr. John Freeman, Dr. Eileen P.G. Vining and Diana J. Pillas.
Step 2
Keep a seizure log. Each time your child has a seizure, note the circumstances surrounding it, the medication she is taking and its dose, her behavior during the seizure and how long it lasted. This log will give you insight into what triggers her seizures and whether her medication is working.
Step 3
Recognize his triggers. For some people with epilepsy, certain environmental triggers, such as lack of sleep and flashing lights, can cause a seizure. Knowing your child's triggers might help you prevent his seizures. If the triggers can be avoided, the number of epileptic episodes could decrease.
Step 4
Talk to other family members. The more informed your child's family is, the easier it will be for relatives to support her emotionally when she needs it. There are a number of myths about epilepsy, and according to the Epilepsy Foundation, quelling these myths with facts helps ease any fears your family might have about epilepsy.
Step 5
Show your support. According to the Epilepsy Foundation, children with epilepsy have lower self-esteem compared with children who suffer from other chronic conditions, such as asthma or diabetes. While it may be difficult for you, always keep in mind that epilepsy is harder for your child. Displaying optimism in front of your child could change the way he views his condition and himself.
Step 6
Take time for yourself. Caring for a child with epilepsy can be emotionally and physically draining. For you to be at your best, you need to take a break once in a while. And you should not feel guilty about it, especially when the family member you choose to stay with your child knows how to handle an epileptic episode should one occur.
