SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, this week helped launch Epilepsy Scotland’s “It’s Time to Talk about Epilepsy” campaign.

Allan is calling on people living with epilepsy across the Western Isles to take part in a new national survey to understand the affect epilepsy can have on mental health, launched this week by Epilepsy Scotland. 

Epilepsy is defined as the tendency to have repeated seizures which start in the brain. There are an estimated 58,000 people in Scotland living with epilepsy, which is the most common neurological condition. This new national survey looks to understand the experiences of people of all ages living with epilepsy across Scotland and seeks to identify which specific support measures should be highlighted.

Alasdair Allan MSP said:

“While public understanding of epilepsy is much greater than is used to be, it is important to continue to raise awareness and to highlight that the condition is more than seizures. For example, there are a range of challenges in the lives of many people with epilepsy which makes it more common to experience issues related to mental health.

“This national survey from Epilepsy Scotland is an important tool in aiding our understanding of the affect epilepsy can have on mental health and what specific support is required. Talking about mental health is rarely easy. But I would encourage as many people as possible to take part.”

Lesslie Young, Chief Executive of Epilepsy Scotland, added: 

“We are pleased to have the support of Alasdair Allan MSP in promoting our ‘It’s Time to Talk about Epilepsy’ mental health survey to people living in the Western Isles and across Scotland. 

“Epilepsy can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health and almost every person we support through our national helpline is affected by mental health struggles.  To someone living with uncontrolled seizures, there is a significant psychological impact of never knowing when the next seizure is going to happen. For some who have controlled seizures, the medication can have side effects which affect mood and mental health. 

“I would encourage anyone living with epilepsy to share your experiences through our survey, to ensure your voice is heard.” 

The survey will run for six weeks and will close on Monday 13 March 2023.

To complete the survey, please go to https://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk/mentalhealthsurvey/