Fear fo been left alone

25 years ago I went through some serious seizures along with medication changes.  This resulted in severe anxiety and panic attacks for me for the first time in my life.  Like you describe it was awful to be such a burden to family who could not do anything for me.  Eventually I found therapy at a clinic which offered a panic attack course.  For several weeks I went to weekly sessions where I was taught deep breathing exercises and meditation.  This therapy helped but it took several months for me to recover so that I no longer have the attacks.  Anxiety is a ongoing problem for me.  I think the medication I take for the seizures adds to the problem.  I've received treatment from psychiatrists for anxiety and depression.  Now I'm at an epilepsy center where my doctor agreed to treat my depression and anxiety along with my seizures.  This is great because they (the symptoms and treatments) are so related.You expressed some good thoughts and feelings about your fears and burden to family.  Do you think you could find some counselling where you and the family could have therapy together in a safe environment to express and deal with this?Mike

Hi, Thank you for posting it, it sounds like you’ve been through a lot. Being diagnosed with epilepsy can be upsetting and make you feel isolated and alone. However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and we are here to help support you. If you ever need to speak with someone please contact our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline, where trained information specialists are available to answer your questions, offer help, hope, support,guidance, and access to national and local resources. 1-800-332-1000, or contactus@efa.org. epilepsy.com/helpline  One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. Learn more about your community support options here: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy/social-concerns It is common for those living with epilepsy to experience feelings of depression and anxiety. As Michael mentioned in his comment, it’s important that you continue to address those challenges with your healthcare team, as well as any changes in changes in seizure types, frequency, behaviors, sides effects & symptoms. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy  It is also important to recognize that epilepsy is more than just seizures, your overall well-being and emotional health is just as important:  https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/emotional-health   If you have not already, you may want to consider seeing an epileptologist (epilepsy specialist). For assistance finding a specialist near you, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/find-epilepsy-specialist   A key part of managing epilepsy is knowing how it can affect a person's independence and day-to-day needs. Visit our independent living pages here: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/independent-living  to learn more about resources that are available & when help is needed. There are many different devices that can help detect seizures and notify someone to help respond. Review our seizure alert device factsheet with your doctor to see if a seizure alert device is an option you: https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/DAS100_Seizure_Alert_Devices_09-2018_FINAL2.pdf    Consider keeping a journal or a seizure diary. My Seizure Diary can help identify & track seizures, record medical history, set reminders,manage medications, side effects, moods, behaviors, recognizing triggers and health events that may affect seizures and wellness, which can be shared with your healthcare teamhttps://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-foundation-my-seizure-diary