1. Epilepsy is caused by witchcraft or curses
Many communities believe epilepsy is the result of sorcery, evil spirits, or ancestral punishment. In reality, epilepsy is a medical condition related to brain function.

2. Epilepsy is contagious
Some people fear they can “catch” epilepsy through physical contact, saliva, or sharing food. Epilepsy cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

3. People with epilepsy are possessed by evil spirits
Seizures are often mistaken for spiritual possession, leading families to seek spiritual healing instead of medical treatment.

4. Traditional or spiritual healing is the only cure
While cultural and spiritual support can be meaningful, epilepsy requires medical diagnosis and treatment, often with anti-seizure medications.

5. People with epilepsy cannot live normal lives
Many believe people with epilepsy cannot work, marry, or go to school. With proper treatment and support, most people with epilepsy live full and productive lives.

6. Epilepsy is a form of mental illness
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, not a psychiatric condition, although stigma often wrongly links the two.

7. Children with epilepsy should not attend school
This misconception leads to exclusion and discrimination. Most children with epilepsy can attend school and learn normally with appropriate care.

8. Seizures always involve falling and shaking
Not all seizures look the same. Some involve brief staring spells, confusion, or subtle movements that are often misunderstood or ignored.

9. People with epilepsy are dangerous or violent
During a seizure, a person is not acting intentionally and is not dangerous. They are more likely to be harmed than to harm others.

10. Epilepsy cannot be treated or controlled
Many people believe epilepsy is a lifelong, untreatable condition. In fact, up to 70% of people with epilepsy can control seizures with proper treatment.