Perceived Loneliness Among Patients with Epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction:

 BACKGROUND:

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition often associated with significant psychological challenges. Individuals living with epilepsy frequently experience elevated levels of perceived loneliness (PL) due to unpredictable seizure episodes, social stigma, lifestyle limitations and reduced support systems. Understanding these psychological burdens is essential for guiding mental-health interventions and improving patient’s wellbeing.

Objectives:

1. To determine the level of perceived loneliness among the patients with epilepsy.


2. To find out the association of demographic variables-age, gender and occupation with perceived loneliness among the patients with epilepsy.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used with convenience sampling to select 70 reported patients with Epilepsy from neurology and neurosurgery outpatient department’s (OPDs) from hospitals and registered neuroclinics in Belagavi city. Perceived Loneliness Scale was employed to measure perceived loneliness.  Percentage method and Chi-square were applied.

Results: : Majority of the participants with epilepsy (70%) reported extremely high to high level of perceived loneliness. Age and occupation were significantly associated with perceived loneliness (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Most patients with epilepsy experience high level of perceived loneliness and there is a significant association between Age and occupation and perceived loneliness.