In this video, Dr. Orrin Devinsky from NYU Epilepsy Center talks to teens about daring to take control of their epilepsy.

It is surrounded by issues of rebellion, independence, heightened self-consciousness, experimentation, dating, driving, and concerns for the future. Teens and their parents share the highs and lows of this often-stormy period, and communication between them is essential to temper the turbulence. This is a challenge for both parents and children, as adolescence, almost by definition, brings parents and children into conflict.

The intense emotions and feelings of the teen years are both positive and negative: parents are both heroes and villains, best friends and "police officers," and the source of great affection and great frustration. The boundaries of the child's independence, which were tested in early childhood, are re-tested in adolescence.

Webinar Recording

Watch a recording of the September 2017 webinar, "Your kids are growing up: What’s next?" Dr. Angel Hernandez and Dr. John M. Stern answer common questions they receive when helping children and parents transition from pedicatric to adult epilepsy care.

The tidal waves of emotions on which teens often ride or by which they are consumed affect those around them. Emotions are infectious. All parents need to navigate this difficult time.

  • Parents must maintain their perspective and must be sensitive to their child's insecurities, peer pressures, and need for support.
  • They need to communicate with their teens about drugs, smoking, drinking, and sexually transmitted diseases.
  • They need to let the teen know they can feel comfortable talking to them. If the parents become too judgmental too quickly, they will harm the trust and openness between them and their children. The balance becomes difficult.
  • Parents need to educate their children and let their feelings be known, but they should try to do it in a positive manner.
  • If teens engage in dangerous or irresponsible activities, parents may need to "read them the riot act," but they should try to pause first instead of reacting in the midst of their own emotional storm. Teens often know when they have done something wrong and are embarrassed and frustrated by their actions.

Adolescence does not need any complicating factors, but epilepsy is just that. In a time of life marked by continuous adjustments to dramatic physical, mental, and social changes, consider that ...

  • Epilepsy is a medical disorder that can upset the tenuous balance of adolesence.
  • Adolescence is a period of heightened self-consciousness, with exaggerated concerns over physical and social image.
  • Even if it is well controlled, epilepsy can torment a teen, arousing fears of isolation, ridicule, and possible humiliation.
  • Restrictions on activities can further accentuate differences from others.

Caring for teens with epilepsy requires special patience and understanding. For children entering their teens with good self-esteem and a sense of independence, the impact of epilepsy can be minimal. But epilepsy can aggravate or create problems of low self-esteem, dependency, mood fluxuations, or behavioral difficulties in adolescents.

Sometimes, well-meaning parents may be overprotective and hesitate to encourage their teens to take responsibility for their own care. However, for teens to make a successful transition into adulthood, they need to tackle issues such as...

  • Learning that epilepsy is their own and does not belong to the parent or the doctor. It's a part of them, but does not need to define them.
  • Learning about their epilepsy so they can make appropriate lifestyle choices and assume responsibility for their seizure medicines, with parental supervision, and other care needs.
  • Managing their seizures and daily lives safely.
  • Living their life fully while navigating or adapting to safety precautions, lifestyle modifications, and the impact of epilepsy on their social, educational, and emotional lives.

Children whose intelligence is at least near average and whose epilepsy is well controlled are able to achieve independence during adolescence and adulthood. Children with more severe physical and mental problems confront a different situation as they mature. Parents of teens who cannot achieve independence in the community must begin to explore the options for their future living arrangements, employment possibilities, legal and financial security, and social and sexual adjustments.

If you or someone you know has a teenager with epilepsy, you don't have to struggle alone. There are several resources available to assist you in handling the various aspects of caring for a teen with epilepsy.

Authored By:

James W. Wheless MD
Joseph I. Sirven MD

Reviewed By:

Joseph I. Sirven MD

on Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Resources

Epilepsy Centers

Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.

>

Epilepsy Medication

Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.

>

Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline

Call our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.

>

Tools & Resources

Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.

>

Find an Epilepsy Specialist

Ready for help? Find an Epilepsy specialist who can help guide you through your epilepsy journey.