Social Stigma on Epilepsy and Marriage

General
1

Epilepsy is one of the world’s oldest recognized neurological disorders, yet it remains surrounded by myths, stigma, and unjust social attitudes, especially in the context of marriage. In many societies, including India, a person with epilepsy is often viewed through a lens of fear and misunderstanding, leading to discrimination, delayed marriage, or even marital breakdown. This stigma is not medical but it is social, cultural, and deeply rooted in misinformation.

Why Does Stigma Still Exist?

  1. Misconceptions About Epilepsy: Many families still believe epilepsy is: A mental illness, A curse or spiritual problem, Hereditary in all cases, A sign of incapability. These myths overshadow the fact that epilepsy is a treatable neurological condition.

  2. Fear of Seizures: Witnessing a seizure can be frightening, but the fear usually arises from not knowing what to do. This lack of awareness fuels avoidance, judgment, and rejection.

  3. Concern about Heredity and future children : While genetics can play a role, most epilepsy cases are not inherited, and with proper treatment, the chances of having healthy children remain high.

  4. Marriage seen as “Risk” - Families often worry: Will the person be able to handle household responsibilities?, Will they be dependent? Will the marriage fail?etc.

    These assumptions ignore the reality that most people with epilepsy live full, independent, meaningful lives, especially with early diagnosis and treatment.

Psychological Impact of Stigma

Stigma does not just limit marriage prospects, it affects mental health deeply. People with epilepsy may experience:

  • Fear of rejection
  • Low self-esteem
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Social withdrawal
  • Shame and secrecy
  • Pressure to hide their condition

Women, in particular, face double discrimination, due to both gender norms and illness stigma. Epilepsy does not define a person. Marriage should never be denied based on fear, myth, or ignorance. As a society, we must move from stigma to understanding and replacing judgment with empathy, and misinformation with truth.

A world where individuals with epilepsy can marry, love, and build families without prejudice is not just possible, it is necessary.

MBH/AB

2 Likes
2

True, epilepsy is still seen as a stigma even now in many parts of the country. The main cause for this is the lack of awareness among the public. Creating awareness among the people is the most important step in curbing the social stigma.

1 Like