November is recognized as Epilepsy Awareness Month.

It’s estimated that four in every 100 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Although 3.4 million people and their families are currently affected by epilepsy in the United States, there is still much that is misunderstood about this brain disorder. People with epilepsy and seizures experience multiple daily challenges, such mood changes, sleep, thinking and memory issues, social and financial concerns.

Here are some facts about epilepsy:

• Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect any one of us regardless of race, age, or gender.
• Seizures are a symptom of epilepsy. Not all seizures are the same. Many people with epilepsy have more than one type of seizure.
• 1 in 10 people will have a seizure and 1 in 26 will develop epilepsy during their lifetime.
• Symptoms of a seizure are different from person to person.

Over the years, epilepsy has been misunderstood and stigmatized. This increases the overall importance of raising awareness about epilepsy and overcoming those stigmas. This month as you learn more about the history of epilepsy, educate others about epilepsy and seizures.