Dealing with Bullying at School When You Have Epilepsy

Bullying is, sadly, something that many young people experience during their school years. For those living with epilepsy, the risk can feel even greater. Misunderstandings, fear, or lack of awareness among peers can sometimes lead to negative behaviour. It is important to remember that nobody deserves to be bullied and there are steps you, your family, and your school can take to help you feel safe, supported, and confident.

Why bullying happens

Bullying often comes from ignorance rather than intent. If classmates don’t understand what epilepsy is, they may react unkindly, make jokes, or exclude someone out of fear. Sometimes, children repeat things they have heard elsewhere without realising the impact. Recognising that the problem lies with the bully’s behaviour, not with you, is the first step towards tackling it.

Building understanding among peers

Many schools now encourage awareness sessions around epilepsy and other health topics. If you feel comfortable, you might want to be involved in explaining epilepsy to your class. This could be through a presentation delivered with a teacher, a short video, or even a Q&A session. By helping others understand what seizures are, what to do if they happen, and how epilepsy affects day-to-day life, you can break down barriers. If speaking in front of classmates feels daunting, your teacher or school nurse can often share the information on your behalf.

Talking to teachers and staff

It is essential that school staff are fully aware of your epilepsy and know what to do if you have a seizure. This includes teachers, teaching assistants, lunchtime supervisors, and even office staff. By creating an individual care or seizure plan with your parents or carers, you can make sure everyone understands how best to support you. If bullying does occur, staff should step in quickly. Schools have a responsibility to safeguard pupils, and bullying of any kind should never be ignored.

Practical steps if you are being bullied

If you feel you are being targeted because of your epilepsy, here are some steps you can take:

• Speak to a trusted adult – whether that’s a parent, carer, teacher, or another family member. Bullying often feels worse when you deal with it alone.
  
• Keep a record – writing down what happened, when, and who was involved can help teachers or school leaders take the situation seriously.
  
• Avoid retaliation – fighting back or making hurtful comments in return often escalates things. Instead, walk away when possible and report what has happened.
  
• Build allies – having supportive friends nearby makes a big difference. Encourage your friends to step in or tell a teacher if they see bullying.
  

Looking after your wellbeing

Bullying can take a toll on your mental health, and it’s important not to bottle up your feelings. Talking to a counsellor, youth worker, or another professional can help you process emotions such as anger, sadness, or anxiety. Some young people also find peer support groups helpful, where they can meet others with epilepsy who may have had similar experiences. Your GP or epilepsy specialist nurse may be able to signpost you to local or national organisations offering this type of support.

Using your voice online

Bullying doesn’t always happen face-to-face. Online platforms and social media can sometimes become another space where negative behaviour occurs. Remember that you can block, mute, or report people who are unkind, and you should never feel forced to engage with them. If online bullying takes place, keep evidence (such as screenshots) and show them to a trusted adult. Schools and in some cases the police can take action where online bullying is serious.

Building confidence

Confidence is a powerful tool when dealing with bullying. Taking part in activities you enjoy, whether that’s sport, music, art, or drama, can help you build self-esteem and find supportive friends who value you for who you are. Setting small personal goals, celebrating achievements, and reminding yourself that epilepsy does not define you can all strengthen your resilience.

When to seek extra help

Sometimes bullying doesn’t stop easily. If you have spoken to your school and it continues, your parents or carers may need to escalate the issue to the headteacher, school governors, or local education authority. In serious cases, external organisations that specialise in bullying support can step in. If bullying is affecting your mental health or daily life, speak with your GP or another healthcare professional for advice on further support.

Final thoughts

Living with epilepsy should never make you a target for bullying, yet unfortunately it can create additional challenges at school. By raising awareness, seeking support, and focusing on your own strengths, you can take steps to protect your wellbeing and stand up to negative behaviour. Remember: you are not alone. Many young people with epilepsy go through similar experiences, and help is always available.

If you ever feel unsafe, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to handle bullying, please talk to a trusted adult straight away. For medical advice related to your epilepsy, always speak with your healthcare professional.