On Parent Mental Health Day (30 January 2025), our Communications Officer David shares some strategies to help maintain your mental wellbeing whilst looking after a child with epilepsy.

Life changes dramatically when your child is diagnosed with epilepsy. While all parents know the daily juggle of responsibilities, adding a child’s epilepsy diagnosis to the mix creates unique challenges that can test even the strongest mental resilience.

Parents are often so focused on their child’s needs that their own wellbeing takes a backseat.

But just like in airplane safety demonstrations – you need to help yourself first before you can help others effectively.

The emotional rollercoaster of parenting a child with epilepsy can be stressful and intense.

From the initial shock of diagnosis to the heart-stopping moments during seizures, you might find yourself cycling through feelings of helplessness, fear, guilt, or anxiety. Remember: these reactions don’t make you weak – they make you human.

So how can you maintain your mental wellbeing while being there for your child?

Here are some strategies:

Break the Silence

Think of emotions like a pressure cooker – they need a release valve.

Talking about your feelings isn’t admitting defeat; it’s taking control.

Whether it’s confiding in a friend, family member, or professional, sharing your journey can lift the weight of isolation and bring new perspectives to challenges.

Reclaim your identity

Yes, you’re a parent – but you’re also you. Carve out moments that belong just to you, even if it’s just 15 minutes of morning meditation or an evening walk around the block.

Physical activity can be a powerful mood booster and stress reliever.

Find what makes you feel like yourself again.

Master the basics

Think of self-care as preventive maintenance. Just as you’d never skip your child’s medication, don’t skip the foundations of your own wellbeing:

• Nourish your body with regular, balanced meals.
• Prioritise sleep (even if it means letting some household tasks wait).
• Move your body in ways that feel good to you.

Build your support network

Parenting a child with epilepsy can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Create a support network of people who understand your situation. This might include:

• Family and friends who can provide practical help.
• Healthcare professionals who can offer guidance.
• Other parents in our Facebook support group who truly understand your journey.
• Our dedicated team at the helpline (0808 800 2200, Monday to Friday, 10am-4:30pm).

Remember, seeking help isn’t a sign of failure – it’s a sign of strength.

You wouldn’t hesitate to call a doctor if your child needed medical attention. Apply the same principle to your mental health.

None of us are meant to be superhuman. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay.

What matters is that you know support is available whenever you need it.

By taking care of yourself, you’re not being selfish – you’re ensuring you can be the best possible parent for your child.

After all, your wellbeing and your child’s wellbeing are two sides of the same coin.