Epilepsy Study

Participants are wanted for a study into the impact of epilepsy on young people between the ages of 10 and 24. The study is being conducted by Allison Clarke, a Swinburne Professional Doctorate psychology student.

"Some young people cope perfectly well with epilepsy, just taking tablets morning and night, but some find epilepsy is a real intrusion on their life," Allison said.

"In addition to all the normal challenges that young people experience, epilepsy can mean having to limit their social or sporting activities, delay getting their driver's license or having problems finding employment."

Participants in the study will complete a web survey, which takes up to an hour, or can request a paper copy of the survey. The survey asks about how young people cope with epilepsy and how it affects their day-to-day life.

"Ten percent of Australians will have a seizure at some time in their life, yet very little research has actually been done into the psychosocial impact of epilepsy. That is why this survey is so important," Allison said.

Epilepsy Australia, Epilepsy New Zealand and Epilepsy Canada are supporting the study.

The survey can be completed at www.swin.edu.au/sbs/pc/research.htm Hard copies of the survey can be obtained by emailing Allison: alclarke@swin.edu.au