Going out tips

Keeping your meds when you’re clubbing

You might be the first to tell security you have medication - but be upfront about it. Most door staff are trained to keep you safe, and since some anti-seizure meds, like Buccal midazolam, are controlled substances, only you can legally carry them. Contact the club in advance so the staff knows you're bringing medication. If that's not possible, many clubs have medics or medical rooms where you can take your meds or rest. Just ask any staff member. 

Keep your medication in its original packaging with a prescription sticker, and it may need to be registered with on-site medics. Informing staff about your meds can educate them and ensure you get the support you need.

Seizures can be subtle and mistaken for intoxication, so carrying medical ID and making staff aware of your condition increases the chances of getting proper help. Medical professionals can then respond appropriately instead of assuming you're drunk or on drugs.

Remember, knowing your body is your superpower.

Venue research

Photosensitive epilepsy affects less than 3% of young people with epilepsy. But if you have photosensitive epilepsy, you’ll know that flashing lights or strobe lights may trigger a seizure. This doesn’t mean you can’t go clubbing or to a live gig, it just means you need to check with the venues what lighting they use and if there’ll be flashing lights. Everyone is different and you should know what types of light are likely to trigger a seizure. However, as a guide it’s usually a flicker rate of between 5-30 times a second that causes seizures.

Hydration

Some seizures are triggered by dehydration. Headaches can be a sign of dehydration. Hangovers are the ultimate example as alcohol dehydrates the body. Clubs are hot places. You dance, burn calories and sweat a little. Even if you’re drinking soft-drinks you can still be dehydrated. So, it’s vital you listen to your body on a night out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day before you go out and when you get home. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with friends. Swap alcoholic drinks for water or a soft drink and balance your fluid levels.

Sleep

It’s easy to deprive yourself of sleep. Sometimes there’s just not enough hours in the day. But if tiredness is one of your triggers it’s worth planning your sleep ahead. Alcohol disrupts sleep. Having a good night’s sleep before and after a night out will help you recover.

ID

For most places, you need a form of ID to get into a bar or club on a night out. Not everyone has a driving license, and sometimes taking your passport just isn't the best thing to do. The PASS Scheme accredits a number of national and local suppliers of hologram cards. To apply for a card you need to contact one of the schemes on their site but it's the perfect ID card to take on a night out and is accepted just like any other form of ID. Check out their site to have your new ID in no time.