November Is National Epilepsy Awareness Month
Every November, communities across the nation unite to observe National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM) — a time to educate, advocate, and inspire hope for individuals living with epilepsy. This year’s campaign continues the movement of “Going All In for Epilepsy” by encouraging people to take meaningful action to support awareness, understanding, and access to advanced care.
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates (ANA), we are proud to be part of this mission. As one of New Jersey’s leading neurosurgical practices specializing in both pediatric and adult neurological disorders, we recognize the life-changing impact that epilepsy has on patients
and their families. Through our comprehensive epilepsy treatment programs, including surgical interventions and long-term management plans, we aim to help patients live safer, more independent, and fulfilling lives.
Quick Facts About Epilepsy
Understanding epilepsy begins with awareness. Here are some key facts:
● 1 in 26 people in the U.S. will develop epilepsy in their lifetime.
● 1 in 10 individuals will experience a seizure at some point.
● Approximately 470,000 children in the United States live with epilepsy.
● Over 3.4 million Americans are currently living with this neurological disorder.
● Globally, an estimated 65 million people are affected by epilepsy.
● Epilepsy can occur in anyone—regardless of age, gender, or background.
● Not all seizures look the same—some cause brief staring spells, while others involve full-body convulsions.
Epilepsy is not a single condition but a group of disorders involving recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These episodes vary widely in duration and intensity, making accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment essential.
The Importance of Epilepsy Awareness
Raising awareness about epilepsy helps fight stigma, improve education, and encourage early intervention. Many still misunderstand epilepsy—believing that seizures always look dramatic or that the condition is rare. The truth is, epilepsy affects millions of people from all walks of life, often silently.
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, we believe that education and access to expert care are key to improving patient outcomes. Our neurosurgical team uses advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques to identify seizure origins and provide life-changing treatment options—including epilepsy surgery for drug-resistant cases.
As a thought leader in neurology, ANA also supports digital education and community outreach across New Jersey and New York, helping families understand symptoms, recognize seizures, and seek timely medical care.
Step 1: Wear Purple
Purple is the universal color of epilepsy awareness. Wearing purple ribbons, apparel, or accessories during November is a simple but powerful gesture of solidarity with those affected by epilepsy. When you wear purple, you help start conversations that spread awareness and compassion in your community.
Step 2: Take Seizure First Aid Training
Knowing how to respond to a seizure can save a life. Learning seizure first aid empowers families, caregivers, teachers, and the public to act quickly and safely. At ANA, our specialists encourage all families—especially those caring for children with neurological disorders—to learn these essential steps.
If someone is having a seizure:
● Stay calm and time the seizure.
● Gently guide them to the ground and place something soft under their head.
● Turn them on their side to keep airways clear.
● Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
● Call 911 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or repeats without recovery.
These small actions can prevent injury and ensure prompt care while waiting for medical professionals.
Step 3: Participate with Your Local Community
Epilepsy awareness grows stronger when communities come together. Local hospitals, schools, and healthcare organizations across New Jersey and New York host events each November to educate the public and promote early detection. While ANA focuses on providing expert care, we also encourage families to participate in awareness walks, informational seminars, and support groups that foster shared understanding.
Step 4: Share Your Story
Personal stories have the power to inspire and connect. At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how patients who share their epilepsy journey help others find courage and hope.
For example, one of our pediatric patients underwent successful surgical treatment after years of uncontrolled seizures. Today, they live seizure-free, attend school full-time, and enjoy a normal childhood. Sharing such victories reminds others that effective treatment and long-term control are possible with specialized care.
Step 5: Spread Awareness on Social Media
Social media can amplify epilepsy awareness far beyond your local community. Throughout November, join the conversation online using hashtags like #NEAM2025, #AllInForEpilepsy, and #ShareYourPurplePower.
Simple actions—posting facts, sharing personal stories, or tagging organizations like the Epilepsy Foundation—can reach thousands and help educate the public about epilepsy’s realities.
How to Prepare for Seizures
Whether you live with epilepsy or know someone who does, being prepared is essential.
Here’s how to stay ready:
● Identify triggers such as stress, missed medication, or lack of sleep.
● Keep a seizure action plan—include emergency contacts and steps for family or caregivers.
● Ensure that friends, coworkers, and teachers know seizure first aid basics.
● For patients with chronic epilepsy, schedule regular follow-ups with your neurologist or neurosurgeon to review treatment progress.
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, our epilepsy specialists work closely with each patient to create personalized care plans, combining medical therapy, surgical options, and lifestyle guidance for optimal control and quality of life.
Showing Your Support During Epilepsy Awareness Month
Epilepsy Awareness Month is more than a campaign—it’s a movement of understanding, support, and hope. You can help by:
● Sharing educational resources in your community
● Starting conversations to dispel myths about epilepsy
● Encouraging those affected to seek professional care
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, we are committed to supporting individuals and families every step of the way—from diagnosis to advanced treatment. Our team of experts provides comprehensive epilepsy care, including evaluations for surgical treatment, long-term management, and second opinions for complex cases.
Conclusion: A Message from Advanced Neurosurgery Associates
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, we believe that awareness saves lives. By educating the public, supporting patients, and advancing treatment innovation, we move closer to a world where epilepsy no longer limits potential.
This November, join us in standing with the epilepsy community. Together, let’s raise awareness, inspire action, and build a seizure-safe future for all.
�� If you or a loved one is living with epilepsy, contact Advanced Neurosurgery Associates today to learn more about our specialized epilepsy treatment programs across New Jersey and New York.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of National Epilepsy Awareness Month?
National Epilepsy Awareness Month, recognized every November, is dedicated to educating the public about epilepsy, reducing stigma, and supporting individuals and families affected by seizures. It’s a time for communities, healthcare providers, and advocates to come together to raise awareness, promote seizure safety, and encourage access to advanced treatment options. At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, our team actively participates by spreading awareness and offering specialized epilepsy care across New Jersey and New York.
2. How can I support epilepsy awareness and education?
There are many meaningful ways to get involved during Epilepsy Awareness Month — from wearing purple to show support, to learning seizure first aid, sharing educational posts on social media, or telling your personal story. These actions help spread accurate information, combat misconceptions, and create a more inclusive environment for those living with epilepsy.
3. What epilepsy treatments are available at Advanced Neurosurgery Associates?
Advanced Neurosurgery Associates provides comprehensive epilepsy care for both pediatric and adult patients. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to locate seizure origins and offer individualized treatment plans, including medical management, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and long-term follow-up care. Our goal is to help patients achieve better seizure control, improved safety, and a higher quality of life.
4. What are the 3 C’s of epilepsy?
The 3 C’s of epilepsy — Calm, Cushion, and Call — are simple steps to follow when someone is having a seizure. Stay calm, place a cushion or something soft under their head, and call for medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes. These steps are essential for seizure first aid and can help prevent injury while waiting for emergency responders or medical professionals.
5. What is the color for Epilepsy Awareness Month?
The official color for Epilepsy Awareness Month is purple, often called “Purple for a Purpose.” Wearing purple ribbons, clothing, or accessories in November helps raise awareness about epilepsy, support those living with seizure disorders, and promote education about epilepsy treatment options available at leading neurology and neurosurgery centers like Advanced Neurosurgery Associates.
6. Is there a symbol for epilepsy?
Yes. The epilepsy awareness symbol is the purple ribbon, representing support, hope, and unity for people affected by epilepsy worldwide. Many organizations, including the Epilepsy Foundation and medical practices such as Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, use the purple ribbon to promote seizure awareness, research, and community education during November and throughout the year.
7. At what age does epilepsy start?
Epilepsy can begin at any age, but it most commonly starts in early childhood or after age 60. In children, epilepsy may result from genetic factors or brain development issues, while in adults, it can be caused by stroke, head injury, or other neurological conditions. Advanced Neurosurgery Associates treats both pediatric and adult epilepsy, offering individualized care and advanced surgical options across New Jersey and New York.
8. What animal symbolizes epilepsy?
The butterfly is often used as a symbol for epilepsy awareness, representing hope, transformation, and resilience. Like a butterfly’s emergence from a cocoon, it reflects the journey of those living with epilepsy who overcome challenges and continue to thrive. Many epilepsy organizations use butterfly imagery alongside the purple ribbon to promote compassion and understanding for individuals with seizure disorders.
9. What are the four types of epilepsy?
The four main types of epilepsy are focal, generalized, combined generalized and focal, and unknown onset epilepsy.
- Focal epilepsy affects one area of the brain.
- Generalized epilepsy involves both hemispheres from the start.
- Combined epilepsy shows both focal and generalized activity.
- Unknown onset occurs when the source of the seizure is unclear.
At Advanced Neurosurgery Associates, our neurosurgical experts use advanced imaging and diagnostic technology to accurately identify seizure types and develop personalized epilepsy treatment plans for each patient.
10. Is there a flower that represents epilepsy?
The lavender flower is often associated with epilepsy awareness because its color symbolizes calmness, healing, and support. Lavender’s connection to Epilepsy Awareness Month reinforces the use of purple as the official awareness color. Many people wear lavender ribbons or display lavender flowers during November to show support for those living with seizure disorders.
11. Who is the most famous person with epilepsy?
Several well-known figures have lived with epilepsy, helping bring global attention to the condition. Prince, the legendary musician, and Lil Wayne, the Grammy-winning rapper, have both spoken publicly about their experiences with seizures. Their openness has helped reduce stigma and increase awareness about epilepsy management and neurological care—the same mission that Advanced Neurosurgery Associates supports through its specialized epilepsy treatment programs.
