Living With Epilepsy: Daily life, seizure management, and personal well-being

Austin Cole
May 26
6 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

Living with epilepsy often means juggling normal young-adult routines alongside a few extra steps of self-care. You might find yourself managing classes or work shifts, hanging out with friends, and also tracking medications and doctor visits. It’s totally normal if epilepsy sometimes throws a curveball into your day. The CDC notes that epilepsy “can get in the way of life,” making school, work, driving or socializing more challenging. You may feel tired or foggy from seizure medications, or worry about having a seizure in public. The good news is, many young adults with epilepsy build rhythms and routines that help them live fully. Over time you’ll find what works for you. Here are some everyday tips and routines that can help:

balancing life living with epilepsy — Routines can help manage your busy lifestyle

Take meds on time: Always take your anti-seizure medication exactly as prescribed. Missing doses is one of the most common causes of extra seizures. Use a pillbox, phone alarms or an app to remind you. Keep spare pills at work/school if allowed.
Keep a routine: Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same times every day, aiming for about 7–8 hours of sleep. Poor sleep is a well-known seizure trigger. Eat balanced meals at regular intervals (long gaps without food or water can lower your seizure threshold. For example, skipping meals or getting dehydrated can spark seizures.

Plan study/work breaks: If medication makes you groggy or you feel a warning sign (aura) coming on, take short breaks during long tasks. Go for a quick walk, do a few stretches, or step outside for fresh air. This can reset your alertness and sometimes head off an oncoming seizure.
Know and avoid triggers: Everyone’s triggers are a bit different, but common ones include stress, flashing lights or patterns, loud noises, illness/fever, or certain foods/drinks (like too much caffeine or alcohol). Pay attention to how you feel before a seizure and jot down possible causes in a notebook or app. For example, if you notice seizures only happen after all-nighters or exam stress, build in extra rest or relaxation before those times.
Talk to people you trust: You don’t have to go it alone. It can help to tell a roommate, family member or close friend about your epilepsy, especially if they spend time with you at home. Let them know basic first-aid steps (like moving you away from harm and calling for help if a seizure is long). This way, if you ever have a seizure in their presence, they can assist safely. Some people carry a wallet card or wear a medical ID bracelet that says they have epilepsy and lists emergency contacts.
Plan for independence: Think ahead about big goals like driving or college. Many states
require a seizure-free period (often 3–6 months) before you can get or keep a driver’s license. Check your state’s rules, and discuss driving with your doctor. Also explore support on campus or work (like disability services) – schools and employers often allow accommodations (extra rest, note-takers, flexible schedules, etc.) when you need them. You have the right to ask for what helps you succeed.

Managing Seizures Safely

The best way to stay safe is to prevent seizures when possible, and have a plan if they happen. Consider these practical steps:

There are a number of practical steps you can take.

Track your seizures: Keep a simple seizure diary or use a smartphone app. Note the date, time, what you were doing, and anything unusual (skipped meds, not much sleep, etc.) before each seizure. Over time you may spot patterns or triggers that you can avoid.
Identify and avoid triggers: Review the common triggers (like stress, sleep loss, flashing lights, missed medication, dehydration, or substance use). Once you suspect a trigger, try to manage it. For example, if flashing club lights bother you, step outside or wear sunglasses in strobe-lit places. If stress triggers you, schedule a relaxing activity afterward.
Stick to your medication plan: This is absolutely key. Set alarms or use apps so you never miss a dose. Always refill prescriptions before they run out. If side effects (like fatigue or forgetfulness) are hard to handle, talk with your doctor rather than quitting on your own – sometimes a dosage change or different timing can help.
Have an emergency plan: Make sure you have an action plan in case a seizure happens. This could be as simple as a note on your phone lock screen or a card in your wallet that lists “I have epilepsy” and emergency contacts. Friends or roommates should know to stay calm, clear away dangerous objects, and gently turn you onto your side if you’re on the floor. Crucially, if a convulsive (whole-body) seizure lasts longer than about 5 minutes, someone should call 911 immediately. (long seizures can be dangerous). Also teach them not to put anything in your mouth during a seizure. Having this plan written down (and discussing it with those close to you) can make everyone more confident if a seizure occurs.
Rescue medication: If your doctor prescribes a fast-acting rescue medication (like a diazepam or midazolam gel) for emergency use, keep it accessible and make sure a trusted person (or you yourself, if able) knows how to administer it during a long seizure.
Recovery: After a seizure, give yourself time to rest. You might feel sleepy or confused for a bit (postictal state). Sit or lie down somewhere safe until you feel fully alert. Drink some water and have a light snack to help regain energy. Let someone nearby know you’ve had a seizure so they can check on you. It’s perfectly fine to nap afterwards or go to bed early – your brain just went through a lot.

Personal Well-Being and Support

Yes, it can sound cliche, but maintaining life balance is really important.

Epilepsy can affect your emotions and social life, so taking care of your whole well-being is just as important as seizure safety.

You’re not alone: Many people with epilepsy feel anxious or down at times. In fact, about one in three people with epilepsy experiences anxiety or depress.ion roughly double the rate of the general population. That means if you feel worried, stressed or low, know that it’s a common experience, not a personal failing. These feelings can arise from the stress of unpredictability, medication side effects, or even misunderstandings from others. It might help to talk about your feelings with a counselor, therapist or a trusted friend. Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Support groups or online communities can also let you vent and get advice from peers who really get it.
Mindfulness and relaxation: Stress is a well-known seizure trigger, and managing stress can improve your quality of life. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga or even mindful coloring can calm your nervous system. Experts (including international epilepsy organizations) recommend mindfulness meditation and relaxation exercises as helpful additions to epilepsy treatment. They’re proven ways to lower stress – and lower stress can mean fewer triggers. You don’t need to spend hours meditating: even 1–2 minutes of slow, focused breathing can help reset your mind when you’re tense. Consider trying a relaxation app or YouTube video to get started.
Stay active and healthy: Regular exercise (like walking, cycling, dancing, or sports) can boost endorphins and reduce anxiety. Find activities you enjoy. Remember to stay hydrated and eat healthily – skipping meals or drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can provoke seizures. The CDC specifically advises a well-balanced diet and limiting alcohol for people with epilepsy. Also, if you smoke or use recreational drugs, consider quitting – they not only hurt your overall health but can also lower your seizure threshold.
Keep social: Isolation can make stress and mood problems worse. Make time for friends and family. Explain to a close friend or partner what epilepsy means to you – they might surprise you with their support. You don’t have to disclose it to everyone, but a good friend or roommate should know how to help. Join clubs, hobbies or volunteer groups that interest you; having fun and a sense of belonging is great for mental health. If you ever feel stigmatized, remember that friends who truly care will not treat you differently – they’ll just be glad you’re safe.
Celebrate your wins: Every time you stick to your routine, avoid a trigger, or handle a scary moment, that’s a victory. Maybe you went a whole month without a seizure, or you finally felt comfortable telling someone about your epilepsy. Even small steps (like using a relaxation technique before a test, or attending a support group meeting) are big wins. Acknowledge these moments and be proud of yourself. Your resilience matters.
Keep hope and goals: Treatments and knowledge are always improving, and many people do gain better seizure control over time. Focus on your goals – whether that’s finishing school, building a career, traveling, creating art, or anything else. Epilepsy may require some extra planning, but it doesn’t have to stop you. With the right tools and support, you can thrive.