Psychosocial aspects of epilepsy

Abstract

Abstract The development ofpsychosocial aberrations observed in epileptic patients is often initiated by the following factors: (a) mismanagement of the patient at home or in the community; (b) anticipation of having a seizure; (c) restrictions, prohibitions and social stigmata associated with epilepsy; and, (d) idiosyncrasy, overdosage or adverse reactions of antiepileptic drugs. It is emphasized that there is much more to the treatment of epilepsy than the administration of anticonvulsant drug therapy and that the best results can be obtained by treating the “whole patient.”; The consideration of economic, psychological and social problems is just as important as prescribing antiepileptic medications. Treatment programs directed toward the “whole patient”; rather than only to the seizures have resulted in an increased rate of seizure control and a diminished incidence of emotional disorders. The role of the psychologist in the psychosocioeconomic management of the epileptic patient is of prime significance, particularly in the field of education and prevocational guidance.