Raising Awareness for Epilepsy and Mental Health

My name is Sid, and I have focal epilepsy and tonic-clonic seizures. My first seizure occurred on February 9, 2022, before I got ready for school. I remembered feeling lightheaded and confused, and then I woke up in the emergency room and was referred to a neurologist. At the time, I thought it wouldn’t happen again, but about 10 months later, on December 8 and 9, 2022, I had two more seizures. I was admitted to a nearby hospital, where an overnight EEG revealed that I had epilepsy. 
  
Before I get seizures, I typically have an aura, which is how I know a seizure might occur. I usually get visions and nausea, although sometimes I get aura with no seizure. After my hospitalization, I found it harder to process academic content than I used to. I have mental blocks many days and anxiety and depression knowing the reality of living with epilepsy. In addition, I have social restrictions. For instance, I cannot shut my door for safety, but people will still pick on me for having epilepsy.  

As much as those thoughts get me down, I regularly attend therapy to channel my emotions. The mental health community is very closely-knit and influential. I also find it relaxing to drink a warm cup of decaf herbal tea and write some poetry. My family and friends have also greatly supported me and even donated to a fundraiser I created for the Epilepsy Foundation. I am now on twice-daily medication on two different doses, and as of June 9, 2023, I am seizure-free!
  
Epilepsy is widely misunderstood, and we need to increase awareness about it. Educating others on a simple fact about epilepsy can change someone’s view and maybe even inspire them to advocate. Your disorder does not define who you are. You are still valuable in dark moments, whether in a hospital undergoing an EEG or at home with a mental block. Epilepsy does not change your importance to others. You matter!