Epilepsy: understanding its emotional and psychological effects and its relationship with mental illness
Intended for healthcare professionals
Evidence and practice    

Epilepsy: understanding its emotional and psychological effects and its relationship with mental illness

Mandy Grant Senior lecturer in prequalifying healthcare, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Chesterfield, England
Elizabeth Collier Senior lecturer in mental health nursing, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Chesterfield, England

Why you should read this article:
  • To enhance your understanding of the emotional and psychological effects of epilepsy, and how the condition is linked to mental health issues

  • To consider how you could address the mental health needs of people with epilepsy in your practice

  • To recognise the importance of collaborative working between epilepsy professionals and mental health professionals

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can have significant emotional and psychological effects on people and may adversely affect their well-being and quality of life. People with epilepsy are at high risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety due to a range of factors, including the unpredictability of seizures, the risk of sudden unexpected death, limitations to their autonomy and independence, and the side effects of anti-seizure medicines. However, historical links between epilepsy and psychiatry, alongside persisting stigma, may prevent people with epilepsy from seeking support from mental health services. Furthermore, professionals in both fields may lack the relevant skills and knowledge to support people with epilepsy who have mental health issues. Epilepsy services and mental health services need to work together to provide coordinated care and address the mental health needs of people with epilepsy.

Mental Health Practice. doi: 10.7748/mhp.2024.e1678

Peer review

This article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software

Correspondence

a.grant@derby.ac.uk

Conflict of interest

None declared

Grant M, Collier E (2024) Epilepsy: understanding its emotional and psychological effects and its relationship with mental illness. Mental Health Practice. doi: 10.7748/mhp.2024.e1678

Published online: 13 February 2024

Want to read more?

RCNi-Plus
Already have access? Log in

or

3-month trial offer for £5.25/month

Subscribe today and save 50% on your first three months
RCNi Plus users have full access to the following benefits:
  • Unlimited access to all 10 RCNi Journals
  • RCNi Learning featuring over 175 modules to easily earn CPD time
  • NMC-compliant RCNi Revalidation Portfolio to stay on track with your progress
  • Personalised newsletters tailored to your interests
  • A customisable dashboard with over 200 topics
Subscribe

Alternatively, you can purchase access to this article for the next seven days. Buy now


Are you a student? Our student subscription has content especially for you.
Find out more