The N.E.A.D For A Diagnosis

Hi, My name is Lauren and this my first blog piece for Friends In N.E.A.D.

I would like to talk about the initial diagnosis of Non Epileptic Attack Disorder and the effect it can have.

When you first receive the diagnosis of N.E.A.D it can be rather daunting. I know from experience that so many things go through your head. What will people think? How do I tell people? Can I stop it from happening or will it continue for the rest of my life? The best thing to do at first is to make sure you fully understand what N.E.A.D is and how it differs from epilepsy. By doing this, you have already taken the first step to trying to get better. For some people simply having a diagnosis can help them, because it can be a huge relief for someone who has waited a long time for an explanation. When you finally receive a diagnosis, it may take a while to fully understand or even accept it but there are things you can do to try and help your recovery. I think the most important thing is to try not to isolate yourself.

I know what it feels like to feel embarrassed or worried that an attack is going to happen while your out, but the more you stay in and worry about that, it may become more likely that you will have more attacks. Its good to take time away and try and release anxiety by doing things that you love. Its so important to make sure that you don't stop living your life because of an illness.

Secondly, another thing that I see as important is to try and work out your triggers and pay attention to any warnings of a developing attack. By doing this not only can you try and prevent an attack coming on, but it may enable you to get yourself into a safe position if one does occur. When looking at triggers, it is important to look at what occurred before the attack. In many instances they may seem to appear out of the blue, But it could have been a day after a big argument with a friend.

Another important aspect for me, that helps me cope is by looking at my frightening thoughts. This means looking at the things you are worried or anxious about and facing them in little steps. For example for me, I am petrified of having a shower in case I have an episode. This is because I have previously had a seizure while being in the bath. For me to face this in little steps, I always make sure when I'm in the shower I am singing. This not only takes my mind of being worried, but also if I stop singing my partner knows that I need help. You can also get a chair to go in the shower, so you are sitting down if you have an attack.

My last point for now, is to always try your best to stay positive. You need to remember that you are a strong individual and that you can beat this. Never give in or give up because not only can it make attacks worse but it may stop you fighting to beat your attacks and hinder your recovery,

Anyway, I will leave it there for now and hopefully, I will see you in another blog post soon

Wishing you all well,

Lauren.