The psychological impact of a newly diagnosed seizure: Losing and restoring perceived control

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the process of psychosocial adjustment following a newly diagnosed seizure. Eighty-five adult patients were assessed 1 and 3 months after a first seizure presentation with a purpose-developed semistructured interview, the NEWQOL, and the COPE. Among a broad range of patient concerns, psychological issues were paramount, representing a process of losing and restoring perceived control. Two psychological adjustment trajectories were identified, which hinged on the experience of a limited (n = 37) or pervasive (n = 48) loss of control. These adjustment trajectories were predicted by demographic and clinical factors. The pervasive group described a more extensive..