[txchic]

I have been struggling with epilepsy since I was 19. I only have them when I'm sleeping. I'm working hard to get them under control but I'm not there yet. I never really thought to talk to my Dr. And see if maybe my seizures are causing my depression or vise versa. I looked it up on the internet and it had several articles on how depression can cause seizures that maybe why I have not been able to control them. It also said that 1 out of 3 who have epilepsy will suffer depression. Does anyone out there have epilepsy and are depressed and if so any advice?

Thanks!

[CANDC]

Txchic welcome to Psych Central. Sorry to hear you are meeting a challenge

Forum on depression might be of interest
Depression - Forums at Psych Central

Just noticed these articles - search for others in search box
Psych Central - An Overview of Depression Treatment Options

Psych Central - Pitt researchers develop less risky treatment for depression, seizures

I have epilepsy and suffer from depression. Yes, the epilepsy does cause me to alter my behavior in ways that lead to depression, e.g., if affects my ability to socialize and to drive. However, I also have many other factors that contribute to my depression, e.g., childhood emotional abuse / neglect and sexuality problems.

There are some anti-seizure medications that can also help with depression, e.g., Depakote. I suggest you discuss this with your neurologist.

[txchic]

Hello Unguy! Sorry to that your struggling with so much more then Epilepsy.
I'm taking lamotrigine right now. It works ok bit if I miss just one pill that next night I will have one! Deported is a older med right? I can not remember if I have taken that before I will look into it.
I hope you have a good day

[shezbut]

Hello txchic,

Welcome to PC!

I am similar to unguy. I have epilepsy as well & I run a social group on PC for those who are suffering with physical illnesses as well as emotional. You are welcome to check it out once you have at least 10 posts. {That is when social groups open to PC members} It's called Brain Injury & Emotional Disorders. Below is the link.

http://forums.psychcentral.com/brain...nal-disorders/

Depression is very common for those with epilepsy, partly due to physical changes within the brain & also partly due to emotional challenges that we face. Being a woman adds even more factors, due to rapidly changing hormones (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, etc.). It is rather complicated.

I have always struggled with epilepsy, but wasn't "recognized" & diagnosed until age 25 or so. I have also always struggled emotionally as well. Mostly due to a chaotic childhood and adolescense. BUT, I am working hard to be my best.

Anyway, I wanted to reassure you that there are others here with epilepsy. We are not alone, and that can feel so comforting at times!

[txchic]

Thanks Shezbut. I checked out the brain injury and emotional disorders link and it looks like a great group. I do believe this is my 10th post! I'm looking forward to joining I thought I knew a lot about epilepsy and I'm just learning about depression and how epilepsy can affect it.