September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day – The Effect of Epilepsy on Mental Health and Well-Being

World Suicide Prevention Day, held on September 10^th of every year, is a day that aims to take the necessary steps to prevent the risk of suicide around the world. It has been found that every year, suicide is among the top 20 leading causes of death around the world for people of all ages.

As epilepsy can have a profound affect on mental health and well-being, it is important to influence positive mental health to prevent suicide in people living with epilepsy. Here are some ways that you can help:

• Learn about the effect of epilepsy on mental health:
  • It has been found that 1 in every 3 people living with epilepsy also experience mental health issues
    • Check out our information sheets to find out more about the effect that epilepsy has on mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
• Encourage people living with epilepsy and their families, friends and loved ones to join a support group:
  • It has been found that receiving regular support can positively influence mental health and well-being
    • The BC Epilepsy Society offers Peer Support for adults living with epilepsy; Epilepsy Friends Forever (EFF) for children and youth living with epilepsy; and the BC Epilepsy Parents Network (BCEPN) for parents of children living with epilepsy:
• Encourage people living with epilepsy and their families, friends and loved ones to seek out help from a professional
  • It has been found that when people living with epilepsy received treatment not only for their seizures, but also for their mental health issues, they had better seizure control and a greater quality of life
  • You may choose to see a registered clinical counselor, a psychologist, a psychiatrist, a neuropsychologist or a neuropsychiatrist
    • Seeing a neuropsychologist or a neuropsychiatrist may be the best option as they have specialized training in neurological disorders and how they affect mental health
• Raise awareness of epilepsy to reduce stigma:
  • It has been found that stigma can lead to significant mental health issues for people living with epilepsy and their families, friends and loved ones, therefore, it is important to combat stigma
    • Through our international I AM A VOICE for Epilepsy Awareness™ campaign, you can educate yourself and others about epilepsy to raise awareness of epilepsy and reduce stigma

It is important to take the necessary steps to influence positive mental health and well-being in people living with epilepsy to prevent the risk of suicide and allow them to live full, positive lives.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please call the Crisis Cente at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). Find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day here.