BRING IT ON!!

(Courtesy of FPE)

   One of the most used source of spreading awareness on epilepsy-stigmatization issues is the media. How and why? The term medium (the singular form of media) is defined as "one of the means or channels of general communication, information, or entertainment in society, as newspapers, radio, or television." We are going to be highlighting the different tips for working with the media.

(Courtesy of FPE)

   To begin with, one must develop the facts so as to ensure that they have the right information to counter stigma. There are many people who do not have the basic information about epilepsy let alone the stigmatization that comes with it. People with epilepsy ought to know the truth. To achieve that, the media has to convey the right information to them. We should also promote message repetititon that is using many and different media sources to convey the same same message.

(courtesy of FPE)

   Additionally one can form appoint someone to monitor the media and immeadiately correct if there happens to be a media misinformation. Furthermore we can also providethe media with stories and people to be interviewed. This will enhance understanding as different people will share different experiences. One can also use print media, developing and sharing positive messages. 

   Radio and TV promos can also help hugely in creating awraeness on stigmatized epilepsy patients. Remember epilepsy has a cure and always sell the correct information. 

   

TIME FOR A KNOCKOUT

    

(courtesy of FPE)

   The set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or a group of people in the society has about something can actually lead to psychosocial challenges to those affected. This is due to lack of public awareness and understanding about health conditions faced in the society, epilepsy being one of them. 

   There have been stereotypes in the society about the cause of the condition with some believing that it's a curse while some even saying it's as a result of witchcraft.Well everyone should know that epilepsy is just like any other disease in the society. It is a brain disorder that makes people experience seizures and one should be aware that anyone with a brain can have seizures. 

   Apparently none would ever want to experience stigmatization in their lifetime but why do we discriminate those with epilepsy among us? It's so surprising that this generation has the know how on handling and managing people with epilepsy but instead choose to neglect the aspect of them being discriminated in the society. Why not interact with them freely? Why make them feel meaningless? Why should we not include them in activities that others also engage in?

(courtesy of FPE)

   These are our brothers and sisters who are also important members in the society and we need not to discriminate them. Let us all come to our senses and do away with some of the barbaric cultural beliefs that promote stigmatization and accept those with epilepsy in the society. Everyone should be a campaigner against the myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and even create awareness on ways of managing such patients. The patients can also be referred to clinics and health facilities that offer such healthcare services for further treatment. 

(courtesy of FPE)

   For us to fight stigma we all need to play a role and not just leave it to those affected only for we all know that it takes two to tango.  Smiles can brighten even the toughest days. Let's spread positivity and support for those living with epilepsy. Together, we can make a difference. 

TRANSFORMING TIDES

   Have you ever wondered how it feels like when one is discriminated? Have you? Well someone can neither imagine nor wish for something like that, right? Yeah, I can bet no one would want that. Surprisingly the question still remains, why do we stigmatize people with epilepsy. Epilepsy is no curse. It is a brain disorder that causes people to have seizures, mark you, anyone with a brain can have seizures. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  Stigmatization should not even be a hot topic today if we claim we are of a new, know-it all generation. Why do we make people with epilepsy feel ashamed of themselves? Why make them feel unwanted? Why make them feel separate from the rest of the group at work? Why make them feel that the world is empty and meaningless? That is not humanity, that is brutality. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  We as human beings that do care about the wellfare of others ought to know and create awareness about stigmatizing people with epilepsy. We ought to help dispel the myths and misconceptions about epilepsy and encourage people to learn more about seizure first aid. There are also clinics that offer local assistance and support groups. 

  Individuals with epilepsy do not have to manage this on their own. Self-management programs address the psychological impact stigma can have on a person's self-esteem to help them improve their seizure control. 

(courtesy of FPE)

  Defeating stigmatization in the long term will require coordinated efforts of everyone with or without epilepsy. FIGHT STIGMA!! FIGHT STIGMA!! FIGHT STIGMA!! Remember We Say What We Mean and We Mean What We Say!!