We live very busy lives, trying to get everything done while still giving back to the community as responsible citizens would. However, we are unsure of where to start or how to fit things into our hectic schedules. But when it affects us personally, we finally understand that we need to pause and take the time to act or join a worthwhile advocacy.
National Epilepsy Awareness Month is observed in November, and there are numerous offline and online ways to participate. Every year, the event promotes ways for people with epilepsy and their loved ones to participate in advocacy, education, and awareness campaigns.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can produce seizures at any time in your life. According to estimates, 3.4 million Americans have epilepsy.
Education and fundraising are essential to help persons with epilepsy enjoy better lives. You can support folks with the condition, whether you or a loved one have epilepsy or are just passionate about activism.
Discover how you can participate by reading on.
What is Epilepsy Awareness Month?
Epilepsy Awareness Month is held in the U.S. every November each year. Congress only gave it official recognition in 2003, while the Epilepsy Foundation had long acknowledged this significant month.
With people now more aware of the condition, the challenges associated with epilepsy’s diagnosis and treatment have been given enough attention.
Although there are numerous potential causes of epilepsy, up to 50% of all cases are idiopathic. This indicates that the source is specific to the person and most often unknown. This might also imply that finding the best course of action is challenging.
The whole month provides chances to teach others and yourself about this neurological illness. The epilepsy community gains from this as well.
Here are some ways you can support those who are afflicted by this condition by increasing money and awareness throughout November and beyond.
Things You Can Do To Help
1) Learn about the condition
It might be overwhelming to learn that you or a loved one has epilepsy. There is a great deal to discover about this complicated brain condition, including how it impacts you and your daily life.
To better understand this and teach others, take advantage of the wealth of information that Epilepsy Awareness Month presents to you.
One place to start is by reading the epilepsy resources provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two of the top national U.S. public health organizations.
2) Enroll in a seizure first aid program
A seizure can occur at any time and anywhere if you have epilepsy.
By enrolling in a seizure first aid program, you can contribute to the safety of those in your community as well as your family.
The Epilepsy Foundation also offers a course on administering emergency treatment for seizures. This group provides free, downloadable posters that you can display at your home, place of employment, or educational institution.
3) Donate
By making a donation, you can support cutting-edge therapy research for epilepsy. According to the advocacy group Cure Epilepsy, despite the condition’s high incidence, funding for epilepsy research and therapies remains far behind compared to other widespread neurological conditions.
4) Join walks
You could find possibilities to take part in epilepsy walks every November. These are intended to generate funds and awareness, but they also allow you the opportunity to interact with people who have epilepsy.
Throughout the year, these walks are held in various parts of the nation. If November is generally frigid where you live, this can be fantastic news. Multiple walks throughout the year can expand the window of opportunity for fundraising and promoting awareness.
5) Spread awareness to family, friends, and colleagues through social media
Your own stories or accounts can support your advocacy efforts for Epilepsy Awareness Month. Social media plays a significant role in spreading awareness about many critical problems.
6) Join volunteer groups
The Epilepsy Foundation and other organizations provide local and online volunteering possibilities if you’re interested in giving your time. Try to research to find an affiliate in your region and see how you can contribute.
You can spend time and volunteer in a variety of ways, including:
- planning walks and other fundraising activities
- holding educational discussions
- supplying families with resources and information
You can also check out the Power epilepsy clinical trials in your area or region and learn more about the condition from the experts.
Epilepsy currently has no known cure. According to estimates, 30 to 40 percent of those who have the disease and take medication still experience seizures.
Try the approaches listed above to get involved and begin your own epilepsy advocacy mission with a decisive step. You might also set a goal for yourself to engage others and make your advocacy a year-round endeavor.