November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:12:49 -0500

This month, we're joining the Epilepsy Foundation of America in going "All In for Epilepsy." Being All In doesn't mean doing everything; it means doing something to support the epilepsy community. Whether that's learning seizure first aid, sharing facts, wearing purple, or showing compassion to someone who lives with epilepsy, every action counts.

Recognizing National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM)

November is a time to educate, advocate, and empower. Epilepsy affects 3.4 million Americans, including about 456,000 children, yet it's often misunderstood. Through awareness and education, we can build a stronger, more informed community that ensures no one faces epilepsy alone.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of race, age, or gender.

1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime.

1 in 26 will develop epilepsy.

Seizures can look different for everyone (not all seizures involve convulsions).

Unfortunately, misunderstanding and stigma still surround epilepsy. Many individuals experience "felt stigma" — a fear of discrimination or shame about their condition — which can negatively impact mental health and quality of life, even when seizures are well controlled.

Together, we can change that narrative.

Take Action: Go "All In" This November

This month, you can make a difference by taking one meaningful step:

Learn Seizure First Aid

Register for a free Seizure Recognition and First Aid Training to gain the skills and confidence to help someone experiencing a seizure.

UMBC community members can also review SDS's emergency steps here:

SDS Emergency Response: What to Do in an Emergency

Share Your eJourney

Your story can inspire hope and remind others they're not alone. Submit your epilepsy story on the Epilepsy Foundation's eJourney Blog and help empower others to speak up.

Spread the Word on Social Media

Use your voice to educate others. Share facts, experiences, or resources using #NEAM2025 and #AllInForEpilepsy. Encourage your followers to re-share Epilepsy Foundation content to help stop the stigma.

Get Involved Locally

Find your local Epilepsy Foundation and participate in NEAM events, from walks and fundraisers to community education sessions. Every connection strengthens the movement.

We're All In

Epilepsy affects everyone, everywhere — but together, we can build a safer, more inclusive future. This November, let's commit to learning, advocating, and supporting our epilepsy community. Because when we're All In for Epilepsy, no one faces it alone.

Learn more and get involved: www.epilepsy.com/NEAM