November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Epilepsy, which affects approximately 2 million persons in the United States, is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures (1). Although epilepsy can occur at any age, the condition is more likely to begin among children aged <2 years and adults aged ≥65 years (1). Delayed recognition of seizures and subsequent inadequate treatment increases the risk for additional seizures, disability, decreased health-related quality of life, and, in rare instances, death (2--4). Analysis of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 19 states indicated that approximately 1% of adults have active epilepsy, and many might not be receiving the best available medical care (5). As do many persons who live with other chronic disorders, those with epilepsy often face challenges related to medication schedules, management of symptoms, disability, lifestyle limitations, emotional stress, and stigma (6).
The Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network, established in 2007, is composed of persons interested in improving the care for persons with epilepsy (7). MEW Network members, including representatives from U.S. universities, community-based organizations, and CDC, are working together to develop and test self-management programs and tools that promote self-management and improve quality of life for persons with epilepsy.
MEW Network programs available to communities include Web Epilepsy Awareness Support and Education (WebEase), Using Practice and Learning to Increase Favorable Thoughts (UPLIFT), and the Program to Encourage Active Rewarding Lives (PEARLS). WebEase is an Internet self-management program to improve medication adherence, stress management, and sleep (7). UPLIFT is an Internet and telephone program that combines cognitive behavioral therapy with mindfulness to treat depression in persons with epilepsy (8). PEARLS is a home-based, collaborative-care depression treatment program for persons with epilepsy (9).
Interventions currently under development or evaluation by the MEW Network include a self management program that integrates self-management and social support for adults with refractory epilepsy, a decision-support system for clinics to enhance self-management behavior, a consumer-driven self-management program, and a telephone-based depression prevention program. Additional information about the MEW Network is available athttp://www.sph.emory.edu/managingepilepsywell
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