Epilepsy in children:Psychological concerns

Behavior related health problems in children with epilepsy is challenging for parents with quite high prevalence in general population. It is agreed upon that children with epilepsy have a higher risk of behavioral problems as compared to healthy controls. This risk increases with chronic central nervous system disorders often due to an underlying brain dysfunction. Both epilepsy-related and pre-existing family variables correlate significantly with behavioral problems in children. Family risk factors are also very important in this context. It is identified that ADHD/ ASD, depression and anxiety are the most prevalent associated problems. Similarly, the quality of the parent-child relationship and parenting style has an important influence on child psychology.This booklet will describe all these related aspects for the help of parents looking after the children with epilepsy having some psychological problem.