Factors associated with the employment problems of people with established epilepsy

The employment experiences of 245 respondents with epilepsy as their main diagnosis were examined as part of a study into the rehabilitation needs of an epilepsy outpatient clinic. It was found that 9% of the sample was unemployed and a further 16% were in receipt of a disability pension. Patients with seizures in remission were more likely to be employed and less likely to have experienced job problems, to feel limited by the epilepsy or to experience stigma. Job problems per se were experienced by 35% of the population. Of those with uncontrolled seizures, 50% had had job problems; however, 22% thought that their current employment situation had not been unduly influenced by epilepsy. It was those respondents who were younger or who were diagnosed early with epilepsy who were most likely to perceive their current situation as a result of having epilepsy. The survey suggests that unemployment is not the major problem it was once thought to be but that discrimination at work is a more serious problem which could lead to under-employment and restricted career development. Career planning should be instigated early and employment services should include information, practical advice and emotional support.