Psychosocial Aspects of Epilepsy

One of the factors which directly affects quality of life (QOL) in patients with epilepsy is society’s attitude toward this disease. Despite considerable progress in the treatment of epilepsy, many patients continue to experience extremely prejudiced behavior from society, even in culturally and economically developed countries. The climate accompanying epilepsy is still replete with prejudice, magic and even contempt rooted in the superstitions and witchcraft which used to exist in mediaeval Europe. This article identifies the factors that mediate the emergence and consolidation of the false and negative image of patients with epilepsy. A clinical study was conducted at the Department of Neu rology and Epileptology in Warsaw. We studied the determinants of changes in the emotional, cognitive and behavioural components of attitude. Patients hospitalised for conditions other than epilepsy un der went a clear behavioural change and attitudinal re-evaluation with respect to patients with epilepsy. This leads to some tentative conclusions concerning the determinants and dynamics of change of attitude toward patients with epilepsy in the general population. Correct medical intervention in epilepsy involves not only accurate diagnosis of the type of epileptic syndrome and implementation of targeted pharmacotherapy, but also accurate diagnosis of all the elements contributing to QOL and level of satisfaction of the patients’ medical, emotional and social needs.