Living with epilepsy often means navigating a world of uncertainties. The unpredictability of when and where a seizure might occur can be overwhelming. For many, including myself, this constant fear evolves into a significant source of anxiety.

In my early years, the terror of possibly experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure at any moment was a weight too heavy to bear. This persistent dread led to the development of an untreated panic disorder that lingered for years. The intertwining of epilepsy and anxiety became a challenging cycle, each feeding into the other.

It wasn't until my late twenties that I found a turning point. Enrolling in an outpatient treatment program introduced me to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Through CBT, I gained invaluable tools to manage my anxiety, learning to recognize and challenge the thought patterns that fueled my fears.

During this journey, I also discovered that some of my seizures were actually non-epileptic seizures (NES). This revelation was both startling and enlightening. I had the privilege of working with Dr. Curt LaFrance, a neuropsychiatrist at the forefront of treating NES. Participating in his clinical trial was life-changing, offering new strategies and hope.

Sharing this experience is important to me because I know firsthand how isolating these challenges can feel. Anxiety is a common comorbidity with epilepsy, but it's often overlooked or left untreated. If you're grappling with similar fears or have questions about NES, know that you're not alone. There are resources and professionals dedicated to helping.