People urged to learn how to help those with epilepsy
Epilepsy Action's released stats as it launches a new campaign educating people on what to do if they see someone having a seizure
Last updated 24th May 2023
More than 50% of people with epilepsy have avoided going out in public because they fear how others will react if they have a seizure.
Stats have been released today showing 90% of sufferers also don't feel there's enough information in public spaces to make people aware of what they should do to help.
David Downie is one of around 13,000 people on Merseyside who have epilepsy, he said:
"I never thought that I'd have anything in life that would make me feel so internal, claustrophobic even. Still, when I go outside, I can't help but think about 'what if this happens' and that to me, is something that'll still take me a long time to get over.
"When this started to happen to me, I was so anxious about nobody being around me. Even being alone in the house for just ten minutes, it was really difficult mentally for me to get over.
"There needs to be far more awareness about what it is. If I was having a seizure in front of somebody, the first thing they would do is ring an ambulance, which is the obvious thing most people do when they see someone in a difficult situation, but that's secondary to making sure I'm safe."
A survey by Epilepsy Action also found 47% of people with epilepsy have been accused of being drunk or on drugs after having a seizure in public.
As part of its new campaign, the charity's urging people to remember the CARE Acronym:
C – Comfort
Cushion their head with something soft to protect them from injury
A – Action
Start to time the seizure, and clear the area of anything that might be harmful. You could also check if the person has a medical ID or bracelet with more information on how to help
R – Reassure
After the seizure stops, put the person in the recovery position and reassure them as they come round
E – Emergency
Call 999 if the person:
- has a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes
- is not regaining consciousness
- goes straight into another seizure
- has trouble breathing after the seizure stops
- has never had a seizure before