(Summary at the bottom)

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. The theme for 2026 is “Where Community Sparks Hope.” The theme highlights the power of community and meaningful connections. Hope can grow when people come together, share their experiences and support one another. By building understanding and offering support, we can create a community where everyone affected by epilepsy feels valued and included.

Purple is the colour associated with epilepsy awareness, making the purple ribbon a fitting symbol. By spreading awareness, challenging misconceptions and learning how to support people affected by epilepsy, we can help create a more inclusive and understanding environment.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain and can cause recurring seizures. It is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide. However, not all seizures are caused by epilepsy. Seizures can also occur for other reasons, and the underlying cause of epilepsy is not always known.

A seizure occurs when there is a sudden episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can look very different from person to person. Some involve shaking and loss of consciousness, while others may cause confusion, unusual sensations or brief periods of staring.

Certain factors can trigger seizures in some people, including lack of sleep, stress, hormonal changes and, for a small proportion of people with epilepsy, flashing lights or patterns. Triggers vary from person to person, and not everyone has identifiable triggers.

Understanding epilepsy can help us recognise when someone needs support and respond with care rather than fear or misunderstanding.

Most people will only have one or two seizure types. Sometimes a person with more complex or severe epilepsy may experience a number of different seizure types. They can be divided into 3 major groups: Focal, generalize  and unknown. Unknown means the seizure cannot be diagnosed as either focal or generalised. 

Look into different seizure types and their classification from epilepsy.org.au 

Misconceptions & Stigma

• Anyone can develop epilepsy. It can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, and it is not always possible to identify a clear cause.
• Epilepsy is not contagious. You cannot catch epilepsy or a seizure from another person.
• Seizures do not always look the same. Not all seizures involve shaking or loss of consciousness. Some can be subtle and difficult to recognise.
• Having epilepsy does not define who someone is or what they can achieve. Some people may need adjustments or support, but everyone's experience is different.
• A person can't simply control a seizure. Seizures are not intentional, and people should never be blamed or judged for experiencing one.
• Misunderstandings can lead to exclusion and stigma. Learning the facts and listening to people with epilepsy can help challenge harmful assumptions and create a more supportive community.
  
  
  

How to support someone with epilepsy

• Learn about epilepsy and seizures. Understanding the different types of seizures and knowing basic first aid can help you respond safely when someone needs assistance.
• Listen without judging. Everyone's experience is different, so give people space to share what they need and how you can help.
• Respect people's privacy. No one should feel pressured to share their diagnosis or personal experiences if they are not comfortable doing so.
• Challenge harmful comments and misconceptions. Speak up when you hear misinformation and help create a safe, welcoming space where people feel respected.
• Offer support without making assumptions. Ask the person what they need rather than assuming you know what is best for them.
  
  
  
  

Seizure first aid: What can you do?

Knowing how to respond to a seizure can help protect someone from injury and make a frightening experience a little safer.

• Stay calm and stay with the person. Give them your attention and time the seizure.
• Keep them safe. Move nearby objects that could cause injury and place something soft under their head if they are on the ground.
• Do not restrain them. Never try to hold someone down or stop their movements.
• Never put anything in their mouth. A person cannot swallow their tongue, and putting objects or fingers in their mouth can cause serious injuries.
• Help them recover. When the seizure has stopped, gently turn them onto their side if they are not fully awake or aware, and stay with them until they have recovered.
  
  
  

Call emergency services if a seizure lasts five minutes or longer, another seizure begins before the person has recovered, the person has difficulty breathing, is seriously injured, or the seizure occurs in water. You should also seek emergency help if it is their first known seizure. Follow any individual seizure action plan if one is available.

How to participate in Epilepsy Awareness Month

• Be active on social media. Share facts, awareness resources or personal experiences if you feel comfortable doing so. Every voice can help someone feel less alone.
• Take time to learn. Read about epilepsy, different types of seizures and how to provide first aid.
• Share reliable resources. Help others find trustworthy information about epilepsy and support services.
• Support epilepsy organisations. Consider donating, volunteering or participating in awareness activities organised by epilepsy charities.
• Help create an inclusive community. Small acts of understanding, kindness and support can make a meaningful difference to someone affected by epilepsy.
  
  

You can learn more about epilepsy, awareness activities and seizure first aid through the resources listed below.

Summary

• November is Epilepsy Awareness Month, and the 2026 theme is “Where Community Sparks Hope.”
• Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause recurring seizures, which can look different from person to person.
• Having epilepsy does not define who someone is or what they can achieve.
• Learning the facts, challenging misconceptions and respecting people's privacy can help create a more inclusive community.
• Knowing basic seizure first aid can help you respond safely and support someone during and after a seizure.
  
  
  

With love,
The Inclusivity Group