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.
Epilepsy and dating
Thu, 06/27/2019 - 22:29My question is: when do you tell new people about your epilepsy? I put "dating" but really its kind of hard to me when to share that information because even when just meeting a new friend or when you're on a new job its important info I mean I usually have gran mal only on my sleep but sometimes have small tonic that affect my job or my time with people but also some of them really "over react" so how do you manage that? And sleeping with someone its really tricky, do you tell him/her before?
Comments
Hi Lizzie,Thats a trickie
Submitted by penpal59 on Wed, 2019-07-10 - 07:06
Hi Lizzie,Thats a trickie question, as the discrimination that exists for epileptics in the work place can be very worrying and interfere with productivity. Depending on the job you do, and the level of risk involved, it might be necessary to tell one person in order to keep everyone safe from harm. Otherwise I wouldn't tell anyone. As for partners and friends, I'd tell them based on their occupation and knowledge of the subject. If they are medicos they'll be able to handle a sudden seizure so I wouldn't bother telling them. But if your friends are elderly or disabled I'd let them know as soon as possible. All the best
How a date responds to you
Submitted by 801cmtr on Thu, 2019-09-12 - 00:55
How a date responds to you telling them about your condition can be a big indicator if they are a good partner for you in the first place.
Hi LizzieaPR, Thanks so much
Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2019-06-28 - 14:30
Hi LizzieaPR, Thanks so much for posting. We understand it can be intimidating and a very personal choice to share about your epilepsy, however it can also be beneficial. Learn more about how to talk about your epilepsy with your friends or partner, here: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy/social-concernshttps://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/parents-and-caregivers/helping-others-understandFor advice on disclosing epilepsy to employers please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/independent-living/employment/disclosing-epilepsyhttps://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/independent-living/employment-help-what-you-need-knowAdditionally, having a seizure response or action plan, is helpful tool for those close to you understand what do if you have a seizure:https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/toolbox/seizure-forms https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/seizure-first-aid-and-safetyFor additional information on managing your epilepsy, visit : https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/managing-your-epilepsyTracking your seizures, record your medical history, medications, side effects,moods, or other personal experiences. using a diary: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-foundation-my-seizure-diarySeizure alert device: https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/DAS100_Seizure_Alert_Devices_09-2018_FINAL2.pdfFor additional information on having seizures at night & safety, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/article/2016/7/dilemmas-seizures-night-or-other-predictable-timeshttps://www.epilepsy.com/learn/seizure-first-aid-and-safety/staying-safe/safety-while-sleeping The Wellness Institute: epilepsy.com/wellness ,has many helpful and easy-to-use tips & resources for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and maximizing the quality of life for you & your family. For practical & effective strategies to enhance your well-being, learn more here: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/toolbox/wellness-support-tools One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. Contact your local Epilepsy Foundation at: epilepsy.com/localsupport , to find support groups, events, and programs in your community.Additionally our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-332-1000, contactus@efa.org, can assist in connecting you to resources, provide referrals and additional support. epilepsy.com/helpline