How to Support Someone with Epilepsy?
Learn how to support someone with epilepsy through understanding, communication, and safety tips. Discover ways to help during seizures and promote a supportive, inclusive environment.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 21st Aug, 2025
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If someone you care about has epilepsy, you may wonder how best to support them. While epilepsy can be challenging, your understanding and encouragement can make a significant difference in their life.
Understanding Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring seizures. Seizures occur due to sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These episodes can vary—some may be brief and barely noticeable, while others can cause loss of consciousness or convulsions.
Common Symptoms of Epilepsy
Staring spells (absence seizures)
Temporary confusion
Uncontrollable jerking movements
Loss of awareness or consciousness
Sudden falls
How Epilepsy Affects Daily Life?
Living with epilepsy can be unpredictable. Seizures may happen at any time, which can lead to anxiety, social stigma, or limitations in daily activities like driving or working. Many people with epilepsy live full, active lives with proper treatment, but they may need extra support from loved ones.
How You Can Help?
1. Educate Yourself About Epilepsy
The first step in supporting someone with epilepsy is learning about the condition. Understand the type of seizures they experience and what triggers them (such as stress, lack of sleep, or flashing lights).
2. Stay Calm During a Seizure
If you witness a seizure:
Stay calm and time the seizure.
Gently guide them to the floor if they are standing.
Turn them on their side to help with breathing.
Clear the area of sharp or hard objects.
Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
Stay with them until the seizure ends and they are fully alert.
Call emergency services if:
The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
They have difficulty breathing afterward.
They get injured during the seizure.
Consult Top Specialists
3. Offer Emotional Support
Living with epilepsy can be emotionally draining. Be a good listener and reassure them that they are not alone. Avoid making them feel like a burden—instead, encourage open conversations about their feelings.
4. Help Them Manage Triggers
Support them in maintaining a healthy lifestyle:
Encourage regular sleep – Lack of sleep can trigger seizures.
Promote stress management – Yoga, meditation, or therapy can help.
Assist with medication adherence – Remind them gently if they forget doses.
5. Be an Advocate
Help them navigate social situations by:
Educating others about epilepsy to reduce stigma.
Supporting them in workplaces or schools if accommodations are needed.
6. Encourage Medical Care
If they are not already seeing a specialist, encourage them to consult a neurologist. Regular check-ups ensure their treatment plan is effective.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If seizures become more frequent or severe, or if new symptoms appear, medical advice should be sought immediately.
If you or a loved one needs expert care, Apollo 24|7 offers consultations with experienced neurologists. You can book an appointment online or schedule necessary tests for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Supporting someone with epilepsy requires patience, understanding, and compassion. By educating yourself, staying calm during seizures, and encouraging healthy habits, you can make a meaningful difference in their life.
Remember, epilepsy does not define a person—your support can help them live confidently and independently. Would you like help finding more resources or connecting with a specialist?
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Aditendraditya Singh Bhati
Neurosurgeon
18 Years • MBBS(2004), DNB Neurosurgery(2014); MNAMS; Fellow Neuroendoscopy
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Ganeshgouda Majigoudra
Neurologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE) DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Sarthak Mehta
Neurologist
6 Years • MBBS , MS Mch ( Neuro )
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Annakula Ramu
Neurologist
7 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM Neurology
Jagtial
Sairam Neuro and Children Hospital, Jagtial
