People living with epilepsy in north-east urged to take part in study
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MSP Alexander Burnett is urging people living with epilepsy in the north-east to take part in a new national survey to understand the condition’s impact on mental health.
New figures released by Epilepsy Scotland show almost 2500 people suffer from epilepsy across Aberdeenshire.
Of these, 789 live in Mr Burnett’s constituency of Aberdeenshire West while an additional 834 stay in Aberdeenshire East and 780 are from the Banffshire and Buchan Coast.
Epilepsy is a common condition where sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain cause seizures or fits.
There are lots of possible symptoms of epilepsy seizures, including uncontrollable shaking or losing awareness of things around you.
Mr Burnett is encouraging residents to take part in the new survey which looks to understand the experiences of people of all ages living with epilepsy across Scotland and seeks to identify which specific support measures should be highlighted.
He said: “I am delighted to support Epilepsy Scotland in promoting this vitally important national survey to understand the specific mental health needs of people living with epilepsy across Aberdeenshire and the rest of Scotland.
“In Aberdeenshire West alone, there are estimated to be almost 800 people living with epilepsy, which can have a significant impact on their day-to-day life and on mental wellbeing.
“People living with epilepsy are more likely to develop mental health conditions including anxiety and depression as a result of the condition.
“I would encourage all my constituents living with epilepsy to make their voices heard through this vital survey.”
Leslie Young, chief executive of Epilepsy Scotland, said: “We are pleased to have the support of Alexander Burnett in promoting our ‘It’s Time to Talk about Epilepsy’ mental health survey to people living in Aberdeenshire and across Scotland.
“Epilepsy can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health and almost every person we support through our national helpline is affected by mental health struggles.
“To someone living with uncontrolled seizures, there is a significant psychological impact of never knowing when the next seizure is going to happen.
"For some who have controlled seizures, the medication can have side effects which affect mood and mental health.
“I would encourage anyone living with epilepsy to share your experiences through our survey, to ensure your voice is heard.”
The survey will run for six weeks and will close on Monday, March 13.
Visit www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk/mentalhealthsurvey to complete the survey.
