How do I explain epilepsy to my 8-year-old after a seizure?

Question

Hello doctor,

I do not really know how even to start this question, but here goes. I had a tonic-clonic seizure in front of my eight-year-old daughter two months ago, and she got really scared. Now she has been having nightmares and keeps asking me why my body does that.

My neurologist has me on Levetiracetam 500 mg twice a day, and my last EEG showed some abnormal activity still.

How do I explain my epilepsy to my 8-year-old when I am aged 40 without terrifying her or making her feel like she has to take care of me? I just want her to feel safe.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I see where you are coming from.

An eight-year-old child is incapable of abstract thought and does not understand the long-term effects of illness. Therefore, you have to explain it in a very concrete way.

You can tell her that just as she gets a fever or sore throat and then gets better, the same is true for you. You are sick, and this condition is called epilepsy, but the good news is that you will get better, just as she does.

I know you are afraid. You can talk to me. If something is bothering you, tell me, and I will explain everything to you.

Watching a seizure episode can be frightening for a child, but this may not be the only reason for her physical symptoms or nightmares. Therefore, ask about school, friends, bullying, or any traumatic experiences. I am sure that if you explore further, you may find another contributing factor.

You may also take her to a psychologist for a detailed evaluation. Children experience many stressors, and you may be attributing them to your seizure episode.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.