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Finding Light in the Epilepsy Journey

 By Stephen C. Schultz


From our family to yours, we want you to know—we see you. We know the fear, the exhaustion, the uncertainty. We’ve felt the long nights, the hospital stays, the prayers, and the unwavering hope.

Epilepsy is a journey we never expected to walk, but along the way, we’ve found strength we never knew we had. Through this experience, we’ve also come to appreciate the power of compassion, support, and connection. As we’ve navigated this path, we’ve drawn upon not only our personal experiences but also our professional background in the mental health field.

Having worked in mental health since 1985, I have encountered many of the great theorists who have shaped psychology and therapeutic care. My formal training as a drug and alcohol counselor has given me the opportunity to run groups, assess individuals in need, and support families through both painful interventions and joyful reunions. One of the pioneers in the field of psychology, Carl Rogers, deeply influenced the way we approach healing and support.


My family recently went through a harrowing and somewhat traumatic experience with my youngest daughter. While her experience was not a mental health crisis, there were mental health aspects associated with her time in the hospital that all of us had to work through. My daughter, at age eleven, was diagnosed with epilepsy. She has struggled with one to three seizures a week since then. She is now in her early 20's. Occasionally, she would go a week or two without a seizure. In January of 2025, she began the day with seizures coming out of sleep, and they did not stop. The term for this is “clustering.” We took her to the emergency room, where she spent over ten hours and had over fifty seizures before being admitted. You can read more about our experience here.

Below is a little history about Carl Rogers, as well as some of his quotes throughout the years. Given our family’s experience, I found these quotes to be very applicable to those who have been diagnosed with epilepsy. I hope this article can provide insight, guidance, and comfort to families, just like mine, who find themselves battling the physical and emotional aspects of epilepsy.

Who Was Carl Rogers?

Carl Rogers (1902–1987) was a pioneering American psychologist best known for shaping humanistic psychology and developing the person-centered approach to therapy. Early in his career, he worked at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in Rochester, NY, where he developed his groundbreaking ideas on client-centered therapy—a method that emphasized empathy, active listening, and unconditional positive regard. His contributions extended far beyond therapy—he introduced the concept of self-actualization as a fundamental force in personal growth and applied his ideas to education, business, and conflict resolution. In 1987, he was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in international conflict resolution.

Five Carl Rogers Quotes Related to Living with Epilepsy

1. "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
For someone with epilepsy, self-acceptance can be a challenging yet transformative journey. Accepting the diagnosis doesn’t mean giving up but rather embracing reality and working towards managing the condition. When a person stops resisting or denying their condition and instead acknowledges it fully, they can take meaningful steps toward improving their quality of life—whether that means seeking better treatment, building a strong support system, or adjusting their lifestyle to accommodate their needs.

2. "The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change."
Epilepsy often requires continuous learning—understanding triggers, medication effects, and lifestyle adjustments. A person diagnosed with epilepsy may need to adapt to new routines, educate themselves about their condition, and remain open to changing strategies for managing their health. Growth comes from being willing to learn about epilepsy and making informed decisions to improve one’s well-being.

3. "When I look at the world I’m pessimistic, but when I look at people I am optimistic."
A person living with epilepsy may feel overwhelmed by the challenges the world presents—misunderstanding from others, limitations in activities, or concerns about the future. However, focusing on the kindness and support of family, friends, and healthcare providers can bring hope. While the world may seem uncertain, individual relationships can provide encouragement, strength, and a sense of belonging.

4. "What is most personal is most universal."
Though epilepsy can feel like a deeply personal struggle, millions of people worldwide face similar challenges. Understanding that others share similar fears, frustrations, and triumphs can bring comfort. Connecting with support groups or reading about others’ experiences can help someone with epilepsy feel less isolated and more empowered to navigate their journey.

5. "Growth occurs when individuals confront problems, struggle to master them, and through that struggle develop new aspects of their skills, capacities, and views about life."
Living with epilepsy requires resilience. Each challenge—whether it's managing seizures, handling perceived social stigma, or adjusting to medications—offers an opportunity for personal growth. Facing these difficulties head-on can lead to greater inner strength, patience, and adaptability. Over time, someone with epilepsy can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and a more profound appreciation for their capabilities.

Final Thoughts

Epilepsy is a condition that presents both physical and emotional challenges, not only for those diagnosed but also for their families. Carl Rogers’ words serve as a reminder that growth, resilience, and support can help us navigate this journey. If you or a loved one are living with epilepsy, know that you are not alone—there is strength in self-acceptance, education, connection, and perseverance.

I hope this article provides comfort and insight to families facing similar experiences. Let’s continue to learn, support one another, and find strength in the words of those who have dedicated their lives to understanding human resilience. Stay strong, hold onto hope, and know that brighter days are ahead.

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