Ayr MSP supports new epilepsy mental health survey
Siobhian Brown is encouraging her constituents to make their voices heard
Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown is calling on the 779 people living with epilepsy in her constituency to take part in a new national survey to understand the effect epilepsy can have on mental health.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition where sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain cause seizures or fits.
The ‘It’s Time to Talk about Epilepsy’ survey, launched this week by Epilepsy Scotland, looks to understand the experiences of people of all ages living with the condition across Scotland, with the aim of identifying which specific support measures should be highlighted.
Siobhian Brown MSP said: “In my Ayr constituency there are estimated to be around 779 people living with epilepsy, which can have a significant impact on their day-to-day life and on mental wellbeing.
“People living with epilepsy are more likely to develop mental health conditions including anxiety and depression because of the condition.
“I would encourage all my constituents and people across Scotland with epilepsy to make their voices heard through this vital survey.”
Lesslie Young, Chief Executive of Epilepsy Scotland, said: “We are pleased to have the support of Siobhian Brown MSP in promoting our ‘It’s Time to Talk about Epilepsy’ mental health survey to people living in Ayr, Prestwick 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, March 13.
To complete the survey, please go to https://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk/mentalhealthsurvey/
