How to Live Well with Epilepsy - Part II - Self Control and Lifestyle Changes

One thing that almost all people with Epilepsy struggle with is self control. We see others out doing things that we wish we could do. Now don't get me wrong - Epilepsy should not hold a person back from being who they want to be - However, the sad truth is that some things should be avoided by people with Epilepsy in order to stay healthy.
In order to practice self control, one must make certain lifestyle changes. Some changes are easier than others to make, but with practice and a good support system, these can be achieved. Here is my ultimate list of what I have found to be the most helpful lifestyle changes. So read on to learn what these changes can do for you and your struggle with Epilepsy.

I Know, I Know... Why Sleep is Vital for Epileptic Teens

I promised my next blog would be tomorrow when my VNS implant got turned on but it's 4:27 in the morning and I can't sleep. I was up writing a paper on Child Abuse and Molestation. That was not the most pleasant topic, and it stressed me out very much. If I could give one tip to all the teenage Epileptics of this world I would say:

"Do not stay up past midnight, especially doing homework."

Why? Well for starters, sleep is key to reducing seizures. The average person needs 6 to 8 hours of sleep a day. Epileptics need extra sleep! So we're lookin' at about 8 to 9. This seemed unhealthy to me at first but my doctor recommended that I would try, and I really benefitted
from just that one small change.


Secondly, schoolwork stresses your brain more than it stresses you out. I think any student can understand this. A brain that is already lacking sleep should not be doing a math review or a 300 word essay.

Lastly, (this one's easy). How the heck are you going to stay awake tomorrow?

I can't begin to tell you how many seizures I've had the day after nights that I didn't go to sleep on time. And they could have all been prevented by catching a few z's. Luckily, I am homeschooled. I say this because someone is always there to take care of me during a seizure. At school I would be screwed because when I was there, none of my teachers knew what to do. I have a schedule just as busy as any other teen... If not more. The only difference is I get to sleep in two hours. I still have classes, and mine are two to three whole hours long. I have tons of doctor visits for my Epilepsy alone... PLUS dentist visits, chiropractor visits, optometrist visits, etc. But everyone needs
their sleep, especially us teens (and people) with Epilepsy. So do what I'm doing right now and get off your cell phones and laptops, turn
off your tvs, close your textbooks, put on your pjs, and get some sleep!!!

Sweet dreams! For real this time!