Medically reviewed by Sarim Mir, MD, board-certified neurologist at Mir Neurology. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Epilepsy Awareness Month 2026 at a glance
- When: November 1–30, 2026 (National Epilepsy Awareness Month, observed every November in the U.S.)
- Color: Purple (lavender) — wear purple to show support
- Not to confuse with: Purple Day, the global epilepsy awareness day held every March 26
- Remember first aid: Stay, Safe, Side — stay with the person, keep them safe, turn them on their side
Every November, National Epilepsy Awareness Month shines a light on one of the most common neurological conditions — and on the myths that still surround seizures. Epilepsy is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. This guide covers the key facts, how to help someone during a seizure, simple ways to take part this November, and when it’s time to see a neurologist.
When is Epilepsy Awareness Month?
In the United States, National Epilepsy Awareness Month (often shortened to NEAM) takes place every November. The Epilepsy Foundation has recognized November as Epilepsy Awareness Month since 1969. Internationally, Purple Day on March 26 and International Epilepsy Day (the second Monday in February) are additional awareness days.
What color is Epilepsy Awareness Month?
The color for epilepsy awareness is purple (often lavender). People wear purple clothing or a purple ribbon in November to start conversations and show support. A pink ribbon represents breast cancer awareness, which is also observed in a different month (October) — a common mix-up.
Epilepsy facts everyone should know
- Almost 3 million U.S. adults and about 456,000 children have active epilepsy, according to the CDC.
- Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, or one seizure with a high chance of more.
- Seizures are not always dramatic. Many look like brief staring, confusion, or unusual sensations.
- Most people with epilepsy can control their seizures with the right medication and follow-up.
- Epilepsy is a brain condition. It is not contagious and it is not a mental illness.
Common myths vs. facts
- Myth: You should put something in the mouth of someone having a seizure. Fact: Never — it can cause injury. A person cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure.
- Myth: You should hold the person down. Fact: Restraining them can cause injury. Clear the area and let the seizure run its course.
- Myth: Seizures always involve convulsions. Fact: Many seizures are subtle — brief staring, confusion, or repeated movements.
- Myth: Epilepsy means you can’t live a full life. Fact: With treatment, most people with epilepsy work, drive (when seizure-free), raise families, and stay active.
Seizure first aid: Stay, Safe, Side
The Epilepsy Foundation teaches three simple steps:
- Stay with the person and time the seizure. Stay calm and keep others calm.
- Keep them Safe. Ease them to the floor, move sharp or hard objects away, and cushion the head.
- Turn them on their Side once movements allow, to help keep the airway clear.
Do not hold the person down or put anything in their mouth. Stay with them until they are fully awake and aware. The CDC’s seizure first aid guide has more detail.
Call 911 if: the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, a second seizure follows quickly, the person doesn’t wake up afterward, has trouble breathing, is injured, is pregnant, has diabetes, the seizure happens in water, or it’s their first-known seizure.
How to take part in Epilepsy Awareness Month 2026
- Wear purple during November and share why.
- Learn seizure first aid — free online training is available from the Epilepsy Foundation.
- Share accurate information with family, coworkers, schools, and sports teams.
- Make a seizure action plan if you or your child has epilepsy, and share it with school or work.
- Check in with your neurologist if seizures aren’t fully controlled.
When it’s time to see a neurologist
Consider a neurology evaluation after a first-time seizure, if seizures are not well controlled, if medication side effects are a problem, or if you have unexplained spells of staring or confusion. Diagnosis often involves an EEG to record the brain’s electrical activity. Learn about our epilepsy treatment and seizure types and symptoms.
Living well with epilepsy
For most people, epilepsy is highly manageable. Taking medication consistently, getting enough sleep, limiting alcohol, and keeping a seizure diary all support good control. Read our practical guide to living with epilepsy for tips on work, driving, and daily life.
Epilepsy care in Hagerstown and Cumberland, MD
Mir Neurology provides epilepsy diagnosis, EEG testing, and long-term seizure management for patients in Western Maryland and nearby Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Book an appointment or call (301) 797-7600.
Frequently asked questions
When is Epilepsy Awareness Month 2026?
National Epilepsy Awareness Month runs November 1–30, 2026. It is observed every November in the United States.
What color is Epilepsy Awareness Month?
Purple (often lavender). People wear purple or a purple ribbon to show support for people living with epilepsy.
What is the difference between Epilepsy Awareness Month and Purple Day?
Epilepsy Awareness Month is the whole month of November in the U.S. Purple Day is a single global awareness day held every March 26.
What should I do if someone has a seizure?
Follow Stay, Safe, Side: stay with them and time it, keep them safe from injury, and turn them on their side. Don’t restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Call 911 if it lasts over 5 minutes or other warning signs are present.
Can people with epilepsy live normal lives?
Yes. With appropriate treatment and follow-up, most people with epilepsy live active, full lives.
Sources: CDC – Epilepsy Facts and Stats; CDC – First Aid for Seizures; Epilepsy Foundation – National Epilepsy Awareness Month; NINDS – Epilepsy and Seizures.
Need to talk to a neurologist about this?
Mir Neurology offers same-week appointments in Hagerstown & Cumberland, MD. No referral needed for most plans.
