How can we address the stigma surrounding epilepsy?

In this video, Professor Dr. Gretchen Birbeck examines epilepsy-associated stigma as a global public-health challenge. She explains that even in high-income countries with legal protections, people with epilepsy still encounter microaggressions and rejection, which can foster self-stigma and limit opportunities. In low-income settings, where misconceptions about epilepsy are more prevalent and legal safeguards weaker, overt discrimination and rights violations are more common. This can lead to exclusion from education and employment. Factors within the healthcare system also play a role as epilepsy care is often deprioritized, annd essential antiseizure medications may be less available. Effective responses must be tailored to specific stakeholders. Research shows that the drivers of stigmatizing behavior differ across groups. Among healthcare professionals, targeted education and system-level investment is critical to reduce stigma and ultimately improve outcomes for people living with epilepsy.

Professor Dr. Gretchen Birbeck Rykenboer
Professor of Neurology & Research Director for the Epilepsy Division, University of Rochester, New York, USA.
Consultant, Zambia’s University Teaching Hospitals – Children’s Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.