Symptom 7: Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are a common and significant aspect of myoclonic epilepsy, often manifesting as depression, anxiety, or both. The unpredictable nature of seizures and the burden of living with a chronic condition can contribute to the development of these mood disorders.
Depression in individuals with myoclonic epilepsy can manifest in a variety of ways, such as feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and difficulty concentrating. On the other hand, anxiety may present as persistent worry about the next seizure episode, fears about the social implications of the condition, or general feelings of unease and tension.
The impact of these mood disorders extends far beyond emotional health. They can adversely affect an individual’s quality of life, interfere with treatment adherence, and even increase the risk of seizure occurrence. Hence, addressing these mood disorders is crucial in the holistic management of myoclonic epilepsy.(7)
