Community Forum Archive

The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

Feeling Alone and College

Tue, 06/25/2019 - 20:13
My Parents want me to get a degree, my mom mostly. I want to purse college and get a degree but my epilepsy is putting me in such a depressed place. Its making me feel as if I am alone, and I cant change anything to not be epileptic and take away everything it has taken away from me. When College and working becomes a topic of conversation that is directed towards me I get sad, because I cant stay on campus due to me feeling like a burden and scared that if I seize something will be taken or acted against me and I will not be treated as a normal student, I have similar feelings about working. Am I the only person who feels this way?

Comments

Pursuing your college

Submitted by Lurch69 on Sat, 2019-06-29 - 20:23
Pursuing your college education will open more doors for you than anything else. Most employment opportunities now require a degree of some type, whether Bachelors, Associates, or Grad level.I pursued my first college degree 30 years ago, requiring that I move away from home. Communication with the administration had granted them insight about the epilepsy and what may come when a seizure occurs. As time passed, and friendships formed, I started realizing that more people were aware of epilepsy than I originally anticipated. If disclosure is a major concern, consider getting a medical bracelet or necklace. The one I wear has provided strangers, medics and doctors insight about my seizures, enabling them to take the steps needed when one occurs, while also allowing your family (chosen medical contacts) to be informed.You will notice the same with prospective employers. The jobs I’ve had, through the past 30+ years, covered an array of fields. Upon being offered, and accepting the job, I met with my supervisor to inform them of the seizures. They, too, appreciated the insight, with many aware of the condition due to family or friends who live with it. Doing so, much like college, enabled them to recognize when one was coming and take the necessary action.You can conquer college.Take care,

Hi I read your comment and

Submitted by 1cor12.9 on Sat, 2019-08-10 - 13:17
Hi I read your comment and believe you have a big heart. I also read the two comments below and they both have something to offer. I received my BS,  however there are ignorant people who watch too many doctor movies. That statement is not to be taken negatively. We are responsible as epileptics to educate our co-workers,  friends, and family to be apart of society without a stigmatizism. I don't believe you are a burden,  I do believe you are a blessing to anyone, especially if you're having a bad day.We are training people to help others and people always find time in their hearts and schedules. Ask yourself would you turn down someone who needs help.Volunteering with special needs is a beginning to build confidence and connections. They don't judge! And you have a sweet personality. It may lead you in a new direction. God bless 

I just looked into this group

Submitted by myahb on Thu, 2020-02-20 - 14:17
I just looked into this group after time and time again of my mom telling me to look into chat groups, but i completely understand where you are coming from. I am 21 and. a junior in college I was so afraid of having a seizure in public that I rarely left my apartment at school. But it comes down to people are people, and will care for you if you need it. You will find friends that like you for you and your epilepsy is just a part of your wonderful package of you as a person. It will always be a part of you, but you should never let it be all of you. Everywhere I go I am very blunt about me having epilepsy, it very quickly takes out the people who will not accept you and leaves the truly amazing people who you want in your life. Jobs are so scary as well and I relate to that, but I have learned that it really is not a problem, maybe just stay away from places with flashing lights or water rescue though LOL. Anyways I hopes this helped in some form..you got this don't let it get you down!!

Sign Up for Emails

Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news, stories from the community, and more.