Guide to International Epilepsy Day
Learn about International Epilepsy Day, a global event held on the second Monday of February. Find out how to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support people living with epilepsy. Discover ways to get involved, from sharing your story to advocating for better care.
Every year, on the second Monday of February, the world unites under a common banner of purple to observe International Epilepsy Day. This global event is far more than a date on the calendar; it's a powerful movement aimed at shining a light on one of the most common yet misunderstood neurological conditions affecting over 50 million people worldwide. Founded by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) and the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE), this day is dedicated to raising awareness, challenging deep-seated stigma, and advocating for better care, funding, and understanding. Whether you live with epilepsy, know someone who does, or simply want to be a better-informed member of your community, this guide will walk you through the significance of the day, how you can get involved, and the crucial facts everyone should know. Let's dive into how we can all help break the barriers faced by the epilepsy community.
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
What is International Epilepsy Day?
International Epilepsy Day is a premier global awareness event that brings people together in over 130 countries to highlight the challenges and needs of people living with epilepsy.
The History and Founding Organizations (ILAE & IBE)
- The day was first celebrated in 2015, born from a joint initiative between two pivotal organizations: the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) and the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE). The ILAE focuses on the scientific and medical aspects, improving healthcare through research, education, and training for professionals. The IBE, on the other hand, addresses the social, psychological, and developmental aspects, advocating for the rights and needs of people with epilepsy and their families. Together, they created this day to form a unified global voice against epilepsy.
When is it observed? (Second Monday of February)
- Unlike fixed date holidays, International Epilepsy Day is strategically placed on the second Monday of February each year. This ensures maximum participation across different time zones and allows for a full week of activities and advocacy. For example, in 2025, it will be observed on February 10th.
Understanding Epilepsy: Beyond the Seizures
To truly appreciate the mission of this day, we must first understand the condition it represents.
What is Epilepsy? A Neurological Disorder Explained
- Epilepsy is not a single disease but a spectrum neurological condition characterized by a tendency to have recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. It can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. A diagnosis of epilepsy is typically given after a person has had two or more seizures not caused by a known and reversible medical condition.
Common Types of Seizures (Focal vs. Generalized)
Seizures are categorized into two main types:
- Focal Seizures: These start in one specific area of the brain. Symptoms can vary widely—from a strange taste or smell, a feeling of déjà vu, or jerking in one limb, to altered awareness where the person may not respond normally.
- Generalized Seizures: These involve both sides of the brain from the beginning. This category includes the well-known tonic-clonic seizures (formerly grand mal), with stiffening and jerking, as well as absence seizures (formerly petit mal), which involve brief lapses in awareness.
Debunking Common Myths and Misconceptions
- Myths about epilepsy are pervasive and contribute significantly to stigma. Let's bust a few:
- Myth: You should force something into the mouth of someone having a seizure.
Fact: Never put anything in their mouth. This can injure them. Instead, gently roll them onto their side and place something soft under their head - Myth: Epilepsy is contagious.
- Fact: It is absolutely not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone.
- Myth: All people with epilepsy have intellectual disabilities.
- Fact: While some conditions cause both, most people with epilepsy have no cognitive impairment.
The Theme and Mission of International Epilepsy Day
Each year, the campaign adopts a specific theme to focus global efforts.
"Breaking the Stigma": This Year's Focus
- A recurring and critical theme is "Breaking the Stigma." The social stigma attached to epilepsy is often a greater burden than the seizures themselves. It can lead to discrimination in schools, workplaces, and social settings, and cause individuals to hide their condition due to fear of judgment. International Epilepsy Day directly confronts this by sharing real stories, educating the public, and normalizing the conversation around epilepsy.
The Global Treatment Gap: A Call for Equity
- Shockingly, the World Health Organization estimates that up to 70% of people living with epilepsy in low-income countries could live seizure-free if properly diagnosed and treated. This "treatment gap" highlights a severe global inequity in access to antiseizure medicines and neurological care. A core mission of this day is to advocate for policies and funding to close this gap, ensuring everyone, everywhere, has the right to treatment.
How You Can Participate and Make a Difference?
Awareness without action has limited impact. Here’s how you can contribute.
Attending and Organizing Local Events
- Many cities host walks, seminars, workshops, and informational booths. Check with local hospitals or national epilepsy associations for events near you. If none exist, consider organizing a small awareness drive at your community center or workplace.
Social Media Advocacy: Using Epilepsy Day and Wear Purple
Social media is a powerful tool. On and around the day:
- Wear purple, the official color for epilepsy awareness, and post a photo with the hashtags EpilepsyDay and WearPurple.
- Share facts, infographics, and personal stories from reputable sources like the IBE or ILAE.
- Change your profile picture to a frame supporting the cause.
Educating Yourself and Others: Resources and Learning
The most significant contribution anyone can make is to become informed. Learn basic seizure first aid:
1. Stay calm and time the seizure.
2. Gently guide the person to the floor and clear the area of hard or sharp objects.
3. Roll them onto their side to keep their airway clear.
4. Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
5. Call for emergency medical help if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, if another seizure follows immediately, or if the person is injured, pregnant, or sick.
Share this knowledge with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Living with Epilepsy: Support and Management
For those navigating life with epilepsy, a robust support system is invaluable.
The Importance of a Support System (Family, Friends, Groups)
- Connecting with others who understand the journey can alleviate feelings of isolation. Support groups—both in person and online—offer a safe space to share experiences, tips, and emotional support. Families and friends play a crucial role by offering understanding, patience, and practical help.
Modern Treatment Options and Seizure Management Plans
- Today, most cases of epilepsy are managed with antiseizure medications. For those whose seizures are drug-resistant, other options like ketogenic diet therapy, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), or even surgery can be explored. It's essential for every individual to work with their neurologist to create a personalized seizure management plan.
When to Seek Professional Help: The Role of Continuous Care
Effective management requires ongoing partnership with healthcare professionals. If you or a loved one experiences a first time seizure, or if existing seizure patterns change, it is crucial to consult a neurologist for further evaluation. For convenient and expert consultation, you can connect with experienced neurologists online through platforms like Apollo24|7 to discuss symptoms and management strategies from the comfort of your home.
Conclusion
International Epilepsy Day serves as an annual reminder of the collective power we hold to foster understanding, compassion, and change. It’s a day to move beyond awareness and into meaningful action—to educate ourselves, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for a world where everyone with epilepsy has access to the treatment and support they deserve. The color purple symbolizes solidarity with the 50 million people worldwide navigating this condition. Let’s carry the spirit of this day throughout the year, continuing to break down barriers and build a more inclusive and informed society. Share what you’ve learned today, and be a part of the solution.
Consult a General Physician
Consult a General Physician
Dr. Ashmitha Padma
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sujay P R
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Gopal Hajare
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB GENERAL MEDICINE,MNAMS ( MEDICINE ) FACEE
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Kharadi, Pune
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
Dr. Ashmitha Padma
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sujay P R
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Gopal Hajare
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB GENERAL MEDICINE,MNAMS ( MEDICINE ) FACEE
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Kharadi, Pune
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
More articles from Epilepsy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Purple Day and International Epilepsy Day?
Purple Day (March 26th) is also an epilepsy awareness day, founded by a young Canadian girl named Cassidy Megan. International Epilepsy Day (second Monday of February) is a larger, organization-driven initiative led by the ILAE and IBE, involving more coordinated global events and advocacy campaigns.
Why is purple the color for epilepsy awareness?
Lavender, a shade of purple, is recognized as the international color for epilepsy. It is often associated with solitude, which represents the feelings of isolation many people with epilepsy experience. The 'Purple Flower' is also a common symbol.
How can I explain my child’s epilepsy to their school?
Request a meeting with teachers and the school nurse. Provide a simple, clear seizure action plan that outlines the type of seizures, first aid steps, emergency contacts, and any medications. Resources from national epilepsy associations can help guide this conversation.
Are there any virtual events for International Epilepsy Day?
Yes, many organizations host webinars, live Q&As with neurologists, and online campaigns. Check the official websites of the IBE (internationalepilepsyday.org) and your country's national epilepsy foundation for virtual event schedules.
What are the long-term goals of this awareness day?
The ultimate goals are to eliminate the global treatment gap, fund more research for better treatments and a cure, eradicate social stigma and discrimination, and ensure that every person with epilepsy can live a full and fulfilling life without barriers.