In South Africa, National Epilepsy Week is commemorated on 10-16 February 2025, while International Epilepsy Day is observed on 10 February 2025. National Epilepsy Week provides an opportunity to strengthen the awareness of Epilepsy and seizures as well as break stigmas about the disorder. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the world. It is a brain disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. Seizures are sudden surges of abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain and can affect how you appear or act.

Where and how the seizure presents itself can have profound effects on the body and mind. Some people may find that seizures occur in a pattern or are more likely to occur in certain situations. Keeping track of any factors that may come before a seizure (also called seizure triggers) can help recognize when a seizure may be coming. One can then be prepared and learn how to lessen the chance that a seizure may occur at this time.

Commonly reported triggers include:
– Lack of sleep- overtired, not sleeping well, disrupted sleep
– Flashing bright lights or patterns
– Alcohol or Drug use- including heavy alcohol use or use of cocaine and other recreational drugs such as ecstasy
– Stress- good or bad stress could be a trigger
– Not eating well- long times without eating, dehydration, not enough fluids, low blood sugar, vitamins and mineral deficiencies

Epilepsy SA, originally established in 1967 under the name South African National Epilepsy League (SANEL), serves as the sole national non-profit organization in the country dedicated to providing specialized and comprehensive services to individuals with epilepsy. Their primary focus is to improve the quality of life for people with epilepsy and those affected by it.

The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 50 million people worldwide live with epilepsy and around 50 percent will experience some form of stigma. Empowering and amplifying the voice and visibility of people with epilepsy, and those who care for them is a necessary step in raising awareness. Therefore, in the weeks leading up to International Epilepsy Day, Epilepsy SA are calling on everyone to join them on their epilepsy journey and take a step against stigma. Help raise awareness by together walking 50,000,000 steps – one step for each person living with epilepsy – ahead of International Epilepsy Day, 10 February 2025.

Sources: The Optima Psychiatric Hospital, Epilepsy Foundation, Epilepsy South Africa.