Also don't let them use the lines about everyone else or worse conditions. You are not everyone else. People all deal with things differently.

Well I have seizures, and had a seizure and I almost lost my life, 4 times. I was hit by a train, almost hit by traffic while crossing the street, when I had the seizure. I've also saw people get robbed while having a seizure.

Its 20 years later and some of my closest family still don't get it or understand it. Good luck, I hope they soon realize what you are going through and try to get themselves informed about your diagnoses and how to support you. It is very difficult to go through this without support .....even from one family member or friend....I am blessed to have a few.

Writing as the mum of a young adult daughter with E: there is so much misinformation and lack of understanding about epilepsy, it's mind boggling. Even within the medical field, we've witnessed countless lame comments and hysterical reactions. I reckon it's one of the least understood neurological conditions, especially given how prevalent it is (compared to, say, Parkinsons)

I am SO grateful for the Epilepsy Foundation, which has been a huge source of information and support for us. Jo also has a great neurologist, who truly 'gets it' how profound the side effects of both seizures and medications is for people with E, and how much it affects daily life.

I've found the best approach is to gently but persistently educate family and friends. This is very hard, as I well know, largely because of people's preconceptions and their fear and ignorance. We have a very far-flung family, so mostly connect via Facebook etc, but I've been so disappointed that almost none of the extended family ever asks how Jo is doing or reaches out to her directly. I know it's because they're uncomfortable talking about E.

I really pushed Jo to connect with others who have E, as that's a shared experience that NO ONE else can really understand. Even though I've witnessed hundreds of her seizures, I know that I'm a total outsider, and can only imagine what it's like to deal with the fall-out over and over again.

Sending hugs to all of you struggling with this pervasive condition. Let's keep educating others, until epilepsy is as understood and acknowledged as diabetes!

My step mom at first thought I was putting on and didn't have anything wrong with me until I actually had a seizure with her in the grocery store. I too am new to this (January 2017) however reading the epilepsy foundation website and having my family read this website has helped a bit. My biggest support has been my best friends and my kids and my boyfriend thru this though. I am here if you would like to talk and can be a sounding post. I know it has turned my world upside down with not being able to drive also