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  • Sponsored Q&A

    How do I tell my boyfriend and his family that I have epilepsy?

    Related Topic
    Epilepsy & Seizures
    I told my new boyfriend that I sometimes don’t feel well when I am overtired and sometimes do strange things but didn’t really tell him I have epilepsy. I am meeting his family soon and don’t know how to tell him. I’m worried. Any advice?

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  • Epilepsy Action Australia

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    Established in 1952, Epilepsy Action Australia provides education and support for people with epilepsy, their families and community, and professional groups. These services promote self-management … View Profile

    Telling people that you have epilepsy can be a very difficult thing to do, particularly with a new partner. Many people fear rejection. A good time to talk about epilepsy might be when you have already established an early friendship and when you are able to talk with each other about things deeper than general chit-chat topics. When you and your boyfriend start to talk more about personal issues, it's a good sign your relationship is probably ready to deal with a discussion about your epilepsy.

    Bring it up and gauge his reaction, let your boyfriend guide you as to how much you discuss it. Don't attempt to tell him everything about your epilepsy all at once as it can be a bit much to absorb. A little bit at a time is a good idea. If he wants to know more, he will probably ask questions. No questions are a good cue to switch to other subjects for now.

    It is not necessary to tell his family straight away. Depending on your boyfriend’s relationship with his parents he may or may not tell them. You will probably know yourself when the time is right.

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