Having epilepsy often complicates life for the high school student looking for a job after completing their education and university. But there are ways to minimise its effects, and to improve chances of success at school, at work and in every day contact with other people. Thousands of people with epilepsy have learned to cope effectively with the challenges it offers. Often that process begins in school, with the help of caring, well informed guidance counsellors.
Like all young people, youngsters with epilepsy have individual talents and abilities, strengths and weaknesses. In general, their potential to achieve at school and succeed in life will not be limited by having this disorder. Advances in treatment mean young people who have epilepsy can live normal lives and accomplish their goals.
Despite these positive developments, however, the youngster with epilepsy has to cope with several unique problems at school. Unless these are understood by school personnel, and appropriate steps to counter them are taken, they may severely limit the students’ scholastic and social development.