Support Groups for Youth
In order to cope with epilepsy, or any chronic disorder, you must learn to accept it.
Sometimes it may be difficult for adolescents to openly talk to people about their epilepsy. Support groups can help you to create a positive attitude towards your medical situation, as well as teach you how to take control of your life.
Group members can help each other in providing advice and encouragement on issues of concern to adolescents, including epilepsy. Facilitators will also help to clear up any inaccurate information. As a developing adolescent, you learn how to interact with others and sharpen communication skills.
Support groups provide an understanding environment where members can develop social skills which can be applied to everyday situations. Support networks help individuals gain confidence in themselves and, therefore, can increase their quality of life.
Most importantly, adolescents who join support groups can also learn how to deal with other people's misconceptions. Adolescents with epilepsy need to get the honest facts about epilepsy for themselves and then use them to stand up against prejudice.
Contact your local epilepsy chapter if you are interested in joining a self help or support group.
|
