Newly diagnosed with epilepsy

Struggling with your epilepsy diagnosis?

An epilepsy diagnosis can have an impact on your mental health. If you are struggling with your feelings, check out these tools from the Channel.

Anxiety

Anxiety is common emotion that many people experience, from mild to more severe forms. And it’s ok to feel anxious, especially during times of stress.

Depression

Depression effects on average 1 in 6 people in the UK. If you have epilepsy this is 1 in 3. Everyone feels sad from time to time, but a constant low mood shouldn’t be ignored.

Isolation

Isolation is a word we may associate with being physically alone, but you can feel isolated in a room full of people. As a young person with epilepsy, isolation is a feeling you may know well.

Overwhelmed

Overwhelmed is an emotion that can cause physical strain during difficult times. It can make you feel like there’s not enough hours in the day, like you have too much to cope with.

Self-Worth

Self-worth is how you value yourself, it’s also easily bruised, because it can be the hardest thing to protect.

Epilepsy & Me

Do you need support? Living with epilepsy can be challenging, but our 'Epilepsy and me' support groups are here to help.

Find out more

Virtual Youth Groups

Discover a vibrant online community at Young Epilepsy Youth Clubs. Boost confidence, make lasting friendships, and thrive with fun activities. Join now for a UK-wide connection and positive, empowering experiences!

Find out more

Youth Voice Network

The Youth Voice Network is a community of young people with epilepsy, for young people with epilepsy.

Find out more.

Play video

#UnderstandMyEpilepsy

Our #UnderstandMyEpilepsy campaign lets you hear from other young people about their diagnosis and journey with epilepsy.

Play video

Beth Dobbin explains her journey

Ambassador and Olympian Beth Dobbin talks about how she handled her epilepsy when diagnosed and what she'd have done differently.

Let's Talk About Epilepsy

Listen to the Let's Talk About Epilepsy podcast for perspectives from young people with epilepsy and experts.

Check it out here

Read some stories...

Racing Ahead

Kath Horgan

Zac’s story is a powerful reminder that epilepsy doesn’t have to hold you back. From wild swims to mountain runs, he tackled every challenge of his school’s Adventure Race with courage, teamwork, and a whole lot of heart.

Meadow's Journey

Kath Horgan

Discover Meadow's journey with epilepsy, from diagnosis to finding community support through Young Epilepsy. Help others facing epilepsy find hope and resources.

Ways to get involved...

Raise money

Join #TeamPossible and get involved by raising money to help support children and young people with epilepsy.

Campaign for change

We campaign with young people for their rights. Together you can make help us make a difference.

Give time

There are lots of ways you can support us by giving your time; be a campaigner, a young supporter, blog for us or share your story of living with epilepsy. 

Guidance for parents and carers