**4. PLWE resilience and coping strategies**

The ability to cope and function while living with epilepsy daily may be challenging. This section provides the strategies that can enhance and strengthen PLWE's resilience and coping with the condition.

#### **4.1 Making connections**

The importance of good relationships with close family members, friends, and others cannot be overemphasized [39–41]. This can be achieved by accepting help and support from those who care about PLWE and are willing to listen to them, strengthening resilience. Some people find that being active in civic groups, faith-based

organizations, or other local groups provides social support and can help reclaim hope [42–47]. As much as PLWE are making connections with the significant others, reciprocal attention must be provided from the significant others. It has been noted that assisting others in their time of need can also benefit the assister [48]. As a result, this puts PLWE in the position to help those in need, as it is likely to offer assistance in a crisis.

#### **4.2 Looking beyond the crises**

You cannot change the fact that highly stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events. The psychosis of epilepsy can be overwhelming, and its neurobiological basis remains unclear [49]. The misconceptions, stigma, and myths attached to epilepsy arise due to a lack of understanding regarding epilepsy among populations. As a result, PLWE needs to look beyond the present to see how future circumstances may be better. In dealing with difficult situations, PLWE must be able to notice subtle ways in which they might feel a bit better.

#### **4.3 Accept that change is a part of living**

People with epilepsy often experience changes in their quality of life, such as reduced mobility and having difficulties learning, attending school, working, and interacting with others [50–52]. Most PLWE live a full, active life that includes school, friends, sports, and other relevant activities most people living without epilepsy engage in. The extent to which epilepsy interrupts a PLWE's life depends on the type of epilepsy, the effectiveness of treatment, and many other factors. To help PLWE become more independent, ensure they receive appropriate care and support throughout their transition in life. The vast majority of people with epilepsy can drive, go to college, get a job, get married, and raise a family [53–55]. Learning about epilepsy, your rights and responsibilities, and where to find support and resources will help you live a happy and fulfilling life [56]. As a result of epileptic adverse situations, some goals may no longer be achievable. However, PLWE can surpass this by accepting circumstances that cannot be changed to help them focus on changeable circumstances.
