Our colleagues in Children's Health Ireland are currently conducting a research study in conjunction with Maynooth University which may be of interest to parents of children with epilepsy.
The purpose of the study is to better understand the impact of stressful medical events on parents and their children. We know that when supporting a loved one who is living with epilepsy, owing to the nature of the child’s condition, unexpected visits to hospitals are not uncommon – due to a deterioration in seizure control; prolonged seizures; and injury as a result of a seizure – amongst many other reasons to attend hospital. Alongside this, we know that it can be a stressful experience in itself when caring for a child with a long-term health condition due to regular appointments and check-ups and there can be a natural worry from parents about how the condition will impact the child or how they will manage it as they grow older.
The study is aiming to find out whether people who have experiences like the above go on to experience stress-related mental health difficulties owing to their experience of stressful medical events.
Researchers are keen to capture the experiences of parents/children with epilepsy who have attended any of the Children’s Health Ireland hospitals (Temple Street, Crumlin, Tallaght and Connolly). They are seeking feedback via a survey which is completely anonymous and confidential, with an expected completion time of 10 -15 minutes.
If you would like to share your experiences as part of this research, you can complete the survey by clicking the button below:
If you have any questions regarding this research, you can contact the Principal Investigator Dr. Jen Twyford-Hynes (Principal Specialist Psychologist, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street) by emailing Jennifer.Twyford-Hynes@childrenshealthireland.ie.
Thank you in advance for sharing your experiences with this important research project and please remember, if you need any information or support regarding your child's epilepsy, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the 'Our Local Services' section of our website.