The association between epilepsy self-management and perceived stigma in adults with epilepsy: a cross-sectional...

To investigate the association between epilepsy self-management and perceived stigma among adults with epilepsy and to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with perceived stigma.

This cross-sectional study included 101 adults with epilepsy. Participants completed the Epilepsy Self-Management Scale and the Epilepsy Stigma Scale. Associations were examined using Spearman correlation, multiple linear regression, and LASSO regression analyses.

A positive correlation was observed between self-management and perceived stigma (rho = 0.392, p < 0.001). However, this association was largely driven by the False Beliefs subscale, as no significant correlation remained after its exclusion. Multiple linear regression identified self-management and sex as independent predictors of stigma, while LASSO regression retained sex, seizure frequency, and medication, safety, seizure, and lifestyle management as the most relevant predictors.

Although higher epilepsy self-management was associated with greater perceived stigma, this relationship appeared to be primarily explained by false beliefs about epilepsy. These findings highlight the importance of integrating stigma reduction strategies into self-management interventions to improve psychosocial outcomes in people with epilepsy.