Recognising this gap, Young Epilepsy has collaborated with NHS England, particularly the South Paediatric Neurosciences Operational Delivery Network, to develop a new pilot program for group mental health therapy tailored to the needs of children and young people with epilepsy in Southwest England.
For the first time, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) will be adapted for use with an epilepsy-focused audience. Virtual group therapy sessions will provide a supportive environment for children living with epilepsy to connect and receive guidance.
About the pilot
As part of a broader mental health pilot by the South Paediatric Neurosciences Operational Delivery Network;
✓ Children and young people in the target area will undergo mental health screenings through their existing epilepsy clinics.
✓ Those identified as needing moderate support will be referred to the ACT pilot.
✓ Over nine weeks, participants will engage in sessions covering epilepsy psycho-education and ACT techniques aimed at helping them accept negative thoughts and experiences while moving towards a fulfilling life.
The project will conclude in early 2025, after the completion of three consecutive intervention groups. Going forward, assessment of the acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of the intervention through a series of pre and post mental health measures will be key in guiding the provision of mental health support for children and young people with epilepsy.
Young people at the heart of everything we do
Our commitment to youth voice saw focus groups being set up with with young people and healthcare professionals around the use of digital mental health screening tools in epilepsy care. This work was carried out on behalf of NHS England and contributed to the use of digital mental health screening in pilot projects across the country looking to integrate mental health checks and support into epilepsy care. Pilots like the ACT project, are only possible thanks to brave young people sharing their experiences.
