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Driving and Epilepsy
Thu, 01/02/2020 - 22:21I was 8 years old when I started having seizures. I would have them about every other week up until I turned 20 and then they became more frequent because I was trying new medications. I’m now 23 (approaching 24) and will be 3 years seizure free in May. I never learned how to drive as a teen and was told that I would never be able to and what the consequences would be. I never expected to be seizure free and am so happy that I am but I’m terrified to learn to drive. Has anyone else gone through this before?
Comments
Yep. Had the chance to learn
Submitted by Misjoey101 on Fri, 2020-01-24 - 17:31
Yep. Had the chance to learn how to drive many times but put it off. The first time I tried with a learner's permit, my mom scared the crap out of me screaming at the top of her lungs " YOU NEED TO LOOK BEFORE YOU GO INTO THE INTERSECTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I basically had a breakdown and haven't tried driving since. Lord knows, if given the chance, I probably should because finding a job has been almost impossible without one.
Hi, Thank you for posting.
Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2020-01-03 - 08:56
Hi, Thank you for posting. Congratulations on being seizure free for almost three years, that’s fantastic news, we wish you many more years of seizure freedom ahead! We understand your concerns about driving and know this can feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and we are here to help support you. One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. Learn more about your community support options here: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy/social-concerns It is also important to recognize that epilepsy is more than just seizures, overall well-being and emotional health is just as important: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/emotional-health Your safety, as well as the safety of others is most important. Talk with your healthcare team about your concerns and fears and to determine what is best and safest for you. To learn more about more about maintaining your license and the driving laws in your state, visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/driving-laws/2008791Additionally, you may always to contact our 24/7 Helpline, where trained information specialists are available to answer your questions, offer help, hope, support, guidance, and access to national and local resources. 1-800-332-1000, or contactus@efa.org. epilepsy.com/helpline