Did you know that one in three Brits would freeze if they saw someone having an epileptic seizure? A recent survey shines a light on our lack of preparedness and it’s pretty eye-opening.
More than half of UK adults admit they’d be clueless if a stranger suddenly collapsed with a seizure right next to them. Many worry they’d make things worse or think someone else might be better qualified to help. Compare this with how we’d handle a choking incident or even a panic attack, and you can see where the gaps are.
Understanding seizures is crucial, as there’s a huge range, from full convulsions to subtle lapses in awareness. Rebekah Smith from Epilepsy Action, the charity behind the survey, stresses the importance of knowing what to do, since one in 100 people has epilepsy.
Meet Murray Goulder, who lives with absence seizures. Once, he found himself in a precarious situation on a train platform but was lucky to have a kind passerby ensure his safety and guide him home. Murray’s story highlights just how vital it is to offer help grounded in knowledge and empathy.
For those with epilepsy, the fear isn’t just the seizure itself but being misunderstood or judged in public. Over half of epilepsy sufferers worry about their safety during a seizure, especially if no one around them knows how to help.
Let’s change that! Here are some top tips for supporting someone having a seizure:
**Comfort:** Gently cushion their head to prevent injury.
**Action:** Note the time when the seizure starts and remove any potential hazards. Look for a medical ID or bracelet for guidance.
**Reassure:** Once the seizure stops, help them into the recovery position, stay by their side, and offer reassurance as they recover.
**Emergency:** If it lasts more than five minutes, repeats, or if they’re having trouble breathing, call an ambulance.
Remember, staying calm and collected can make all the difference in those critical moments. Let’s be the helping hand they can count on! 💜