Search Here

Children and young people with epilepsy often face mental health challenges, yet these difficulties frequently go unrecognized due to the separation of epilepsy and mental health services.

The MICE Treatment

A new intervention, called Mental Health Intervention for Children with Epilepsy or MICE, offers a groundbreaking approach to addressing mental health concerns in this population. Unlike traditional treatments, MICE employs a modular approach, allowing simultaneous treatment of multiple mental health conditions. Developed with input from patients, families and healthcare professionals, MICE also integrates educational sessions about the relationship between epilepsy and mental health.

One of MICE's key features is its flexibility in delivery. Sessions can be conducted over the phone or via video call, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to school or work. More importantly, MICE is integrated into existing epilepsy services, eliminating the need for specialized mental health clinicians.

A study involving 334 children and young people aged three to 18 compared MICE to standard mental health treatment for epilepsy. Results showed that participants receiving MICE experienced fewer mental difficulties, equivalent to a 40% decrease in the likelihood of psychiatric disorders. These findings indicated significant progress in addressing mental health challenges in children with epilepsy.

Implications and Future Directions

The success of MICE holds promise for revolutionizing mental healthcare practices, offering hope for families struggling with both epilepsy and mental health. The researchers emphasized that by integrating mental health treatment into existing pediatric settings, healthcare professionals can meet the holistic needs of children with physical health conditions like epilepsy.

The collaborative efforts of researchers, patients and healthcare professionals have led to a transformative breakthrough in the treatment of mental health issues associated with epilepsy. The MICE intervention represents a significant change, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care and paving the way for improved outcomes for children and young people with epilepsy.