Experience of epilepsy: Coping strategies and health outcomes among Ghanaians living with epilepsy

The purpose of this study was to assess the coping strategies of people living with epilepsy (PLWEs) and their health outcomes. This was a descriptive-exploratory, qualitative study. Face-to-face, in-depth interviews were carried out on a purposive sample of 13 PLWEs using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed using the content analysis approach. Positive coping strategies adopted included problem-focused coping, faith in God, social support, and lifestyle changes. Negative coping strategies adopted were thinking and worrying and concealing diagnosis. Treatment modalities for epilepsy were spiritual intervention, traditional, or orthodox medicines or a combination of two or more. A reduction in the frequency and severity of seizures was a positive outcome, and the worsening of seizures was a negative outcome. The consultation of spiritualists and herbalists for treatment was a reflection of their beliefs about the causes of epilepsy among the participants. There is a need for increased education on epilepsy in Ghana. •Participants coped through lifestyle changes, social support, and faith in God.•Spiritual intervention, traditional, or orthodox medicines were used to treat epilepsy.•Participants poorly coped by concealing diagnosis and worrying about seizures.•Decreased seizure frequency represented positive outcomes of coping strategies.