Preparing for The Darker Months: How Winter Can Affect Epilepsy

As the days grow shorter and the clocks go back, many people notice changes in their sleep, energy and mood. For those living with epilepsy, these seasonal shifts can also influence seizure patterns and overall wellbeing. Understanding how the darker months can affect individuals with epilepsy is essential for carers, teachers and support workers.

This article explores the key ways winter can impact epilepsy and outlines the training considerations that help staff provide the best possible care and support.

Understanding the link between seasonal change and epilepsy

Light exposure and seizure activity

Reduced daylight can affect the body’s circadian rhythm – the internal clock that regulates sleep and wakefulness. Changes to this rhythm can alter hormone levels and impact seizure thresholds. For some individuals, sudden exposure to artificial light or flashing Christmas decorations can also be a trigger, particularly for those with photosensitive epilepsy.

Sleep disruption

Shorter days often mean disrupted sleep routines. Poor or inconsistent sleep is one of the most common seizure triggers. As mornings become darker, people may struggle to wake at consistent times, while longer evenings indoors can lead to irregular bedtime routines.

Training programmes that help carers recognise early signs of fatigue and manage sleep hygiene are invaluable during this time of year.

Stress and routine changes

The winter period often brings additional stressors – from busier schedules to the pressures of festive gatherings. Stress can exacerbate seizure frequency in some individuals. Staff trained in recognising behavioural or emotional cues can play a vital role in preventing escalation and maintaining calm, structured environments.

Environmental factors to be aware of

Temperature and medication

Cold weather can make it harder to maintain consistent body temperature, which may influence how some medications are absorbed or metabolised. Additionally, respiratory infections are more common in winter and can interfere with medication routines.

Trained staff should know how to monitor for signs of illness, ensure medication adherence, and recognise when medical review may be necessary.

Indoor lighting and photosensitivity

As natural light fades earlier in the day, we rely more on artificial lighting. Fluorescent lights, flickering bulbs or festive decorations can trigger seizures in some individuals with photosensitive epilepsy.

Training can help staff identify safer lighting setups and know when to remove or replace potentially problematic light sources.

Supporting wellbeing during the darker months

Encouraging consistent routines

Maintaining regular sleep, meal and medication times can help stabilise seizure activity. Staff training often includes techniques for promoting structure and identifying small changes in behaviour or mood that could indicate increased risk.

Promoting physical and mental health

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and low mood are common during winter, especially in individuals with chronic conditions. Encouraging outdoor activity, light exercise, and social interaction can help support wellbeing. Training programmes can guide carers in promoting safe, suitable activities while remaining alert to potential triggers.

Managing festive environments

The festive season can bring bright lights, loud music, and crowded settings – all potential stressors for someone with epilepsy. Staff should be trained in risk assessment for outings, understanding environmental triggers, and developing contingency plans in case of a seizure in public.

Why epilepsy training matters more in winter

Professional training equips staff with the skills to recognise early warning signs, respond effectively to seizures, and adapt care strategies to changing conditions. During the darker months, this knowledge becomes even more critical.

Training helps teams:

• Understand how environmental and lifestyle changes affect seizure risk
  
• Support individuals to maintain stable routines
  
• Manage triggers such as lighting, fatigue and stress
  
• Respond calmly and safely if a seizure occurs
  

Conclusion

Seasonal changes can influence both physical and emotional wellbeing for people living with epilepsy. With the right awareness and training, carers, teachers and support workers can adapt their approach to provide consistent, confident and compassionate support through the darker months.

If your organisation would benefit from tailored epilepsy awareness or first aid training, contact National Epilepsy Training to learn more about our in-person and online courses.