Stress and Epilepsy

While there is no definite evidence that reducing stress help seizures, a recent study showed that nearly 9 in 10 people who actively managed their stress believed it reduced their risk of seizures. Common sense tells us that if something is bothering you, see what you can do to avoid it or make it better.

Managing stress is very personal and specific to your situation. However, there are some universal recommendations.

• Use a diary and write down what’s likely to cause stress for you.
• Try to avoid stressful situations if it makes sense to do so, and if you can avoid it. If you can’t avoid it, can you let go of the worry it’s causing you?
• When a stressful situation is unavoidable, make sure you are doing your best to get enough sleep and take your seizure medications on time.
• Find ways to diffuse a situation. Avoid people who cause anger and anxiety if you can. Try to approach them differently – it may help calm you down.
• Exercise regularly. Lots of research has shown that exercise helps lower stress.
• Do your best to relax. Try yoga, tai chi, Pilates, a massage, cat naps, or controlled breathing techniques.
• Limit long naps during the day. Sleeping during the day will cause sleep problems at night and make you feel worse.
• Keep to a daily routine. Pace yourself and take frequent breaks.
• Set priorities for what is important in your life and let the rest go.