Stress and Epilepsy

The link between stress and epilepsy

It is widely accepted that we live in a stressful society. The pressures of financial survival, work, travel in crowded cities and meeting our responsibilities are just some of the stresses that everyone experiences in their daily life.

For people with epilepsy there may be additional stresses associated with their condition. These included the need to take medication regularly, uncertainty about when a seizure will occur, difficulties gaining a driver's licence and dependency on others, to name just a few.

The effect of this stress, and the anxiety and emotion that accompany it, can trigger seizures. An Australian study found that 63 per cent of respondents believed there was a relationship between stress and seizure control.

Stress management cannot replace the use of anticonvulsant medication. However, together with regular medication, it can be one of the most effective approaches to reducing seizures and living well with epilepsy.

How stress develops and how it affects the body

Stress is a natural physical response by the body. It is believed to be associated with the primitive 'flight or fight' instinct. When confronted by a challenge, the body responds by releasing a hormone called adrenalin which gives extra strength to the muscles and sharpens our responses. This physical reaction is designed to provide a quick response to a challenging situation. The stress reaction can become a problem, however, if there are too many challenges to the body at any one time.

Just how much stress is too much varies for each individual. You can recognise when you have too much stress in your life by watching for certain changes in your behaviour. These changes might include missing meals, drinking too much alcohol or being unable to rest and relax.

Techniques that help to reduce stress

There is a wide range of techniques you can use to help manage and reduce stress. Some techniques are outlined below.

Relaxation and breathing: These techniques involve focusing on your body and your breathing, consciously relaxing your muscles, deepening your breathing and allowing your thoughts to flow without attempting to control them.

Meditation: Meditation emphasises relaxing the mind, techniques such as observing thoughts and emotions, and focusing on your breathing.

Exercise: Regular exercise helps keep you fit and can induce better sleep and a healthy appetite. It often contributes to a sense of well-being, by providing a break from day-to-day worries, and gives a sense of control and achievement.

Gentle movement - such as simple stretching, rocking, and moving hands and arms - can relax and calm the body.

Time management: This approach addresses excessive demands within work and personal time. It involves techniques such as establishing priorities, using lists, notes and a diary, taking time for yourself and rewarding yourself for a job well done.

Assertiveness training: Assertiveness is an approach that helps you better communicate your feelings and needs, without aggression, in both personal and professional areas of your life. This technique also emphasises the importance of listening to and respecting the other person or people in the discussion.

Improving self-esteem: By becoming aware of the power of your own thoughts in creating your self-image, this technique builds up positive thought and reduces negative ones. It involves actively learning about yourself and taking more control of your life.

Anxiety management: Anticipating problems also causes stress. A range of approaches can help to diminish anxiety. These include identifying your fears and learning to take control of your life, to name just two.

Original courtesy of Epilepsy Foundation of Victoria
Revised April 2002

This information provided by the Epilepsy Association of South Australia Inc on the Internet is designed to provide basic information about epilepsy. It is not intended, nor does it constitute medical or other professional advice. Diagnosis and advice on medical care or other assessments should be sought from a medical practitioner or suitably qualified professional.