What is International Epilepsy Day ?
“People and organizations around the globe gather each year to mark International Epilepsy Day. It is a joint initiative of the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE).
In 2023, International Epilepsy Day will focus on the stigma people living with epilepsy face around the world.
Epilepsy affects almost every aspect of the life of the person diagnosed with the disease. For many people living with epilepsy, the stigma attached to the disease is more difficult to deal with than the disease itself.
The stigma of epilepsy can discourage people from seeking treatment and has consequences for the quality of life and social inclusion.
This International Epilepsy Day, you’re invited to share your stories of facing stigma as a person with epilepsy or you support someone who has epilepsy. Stigma can be reduced when people are given the opportunity to discuss the effects of stigma on their lives.
Educating people about epilepsy and dispelling myths can also reduce stigma. Help us spread awareness of Epilepsy Facts vs Myths by sharing our messages online and making your own.”
We are recognising International Epilepsy Day by sharing stories and messages on our social media platforms and the epilepsy warriors appeal which tells the story of Glenn’s journey living with epilepsy.
More Information about IED can be found here
What is the Intersectoral Global Action Plan ?
The IGAP is a 10 year roadmap launched by the World Health organisation to effectively address neurological conditions and improve the lives of people who live with epilepsy and other neurological conditions worldwide.
It consists of 5 strategic objectives and10 global targets.
It is encouraging to see that New Zealand is one of the 194 signatories of the Intersectional Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and we look forward to working with the government to help implement the five strategic objectives by 2031.
These are:
- provide effective, timely and responsive diagnosis, treatment, and care
- implement strategies for promotion and prevention
- foster research and innovation and strengthen information systems
- strengthen the public health approach to epilepsy
- raise policy prioritization and strengthen governance
Epilepsy New Zealand has reached out to our national government to show support by wearing a purple ribbon when the House sits for the first time on February 14th.
More information about IGAP can be found here : IGAP-Unpacked_Guide_V2.pdf
More Information about the IBE’s position statement ( international Bureau for Epilepsy) can be found here :IBE-position-statement-re.-iGAP