Epilepsy and autism
Learn about the co-occurrence of autism and epilepsy, their risk factors, and management. Find support and resources for living with both conditions.
In this section, we cover autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia) and emotional disorders.
There are some conditions or disorders that children with epilepsy may or may not also have. These are called co-occurring conditions, which are also known as ‘comorbidities’.
Co-occurring conditions with epilepsy vary from child to child, as does how severe they are, and the impact they have on a child’s quality of life.
It’s important to recognise these co-occurring conditions early and seek help and support.
We also give an overview of the recommended approach to treating and supporting co-occurring conditions with epilepsy.
Last updated December 2023.
We’re currently reviewing this information. The next update will be 2026. If you would like to find out more about how we produce our information, or the sources of evidence we use, please contact us at healthinfo@youngepilepsy.org.uk
Learn about the co-occurrence of autism and epilepsy, their risk factors, and management. Find support and resources for living with both conditions.
Learn about epilepsy, ADHD, and DCD (dyspraxia) in children and how these developmental disorders are connected.
Learn about the link between epilepsy and emotional disorders in children, plus strategies to help them manage and lead a full, social life.
Learn about treatment and support for co-occurring conditions with epilepsy, including coordinated care and mental health reviews.
Learn about the causes of epilepsy, including genetic, metabolic, unknown origins, and epilepsy in infants, from Young Epilepsy.
Learn about common childhood and rare infancy epilepsy syndromes in this informative guide from Young Epilepsy.
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Learn about epilepsy diagnosis, referral, assessments, and the tests used to help identify epilepsy at Young Epilepsy.
Explore various epilepsy treatments, including medication, surgery, and dietary options. Find resources and support for managing epilepsy effectively.
Learn about SUDEP, the risks to children and young people with epilepsy, and how to reduce them.