New Study Aims to Improve Executive Functioning in Teens with Epilepsy

Source: Contemporary clinical trials communications

Summary

Researchers studied a program called Epilepsy Journey (EJ) to help teenagers with epilepsy improve their executive functioning skills, which are important for tasks like planning, organizing, and managing emotions. The study involved adolescents aged 13 to 17 years who were randomly assigned to different groups. Some received only online learning modules, others had telehealth sessions with a therapist, and a third group experienced both. There was also a control group that continued with usual epilepsy care.

The key findings so far suggest that the EJ program could help improve important skills for these teens. By focusing on areas like positive thinking, problem-solving, and managing stress, the program aims to enhance their overall quality of life. The feedback from an advisory board, which included teens, caregivers, and teachers, helped shape the study and make it more effective in reaching its goals.

This research is important because it addresses a gap in support for adolescents with epilepsy, particularly in improving their daily functioning and well-being. However, the study has limitations, such as a small number of participants and potential challenges in recruitment. As the study progresses, it will be crucial to see how well the EJ program works in the long term and if it can be expanded to help more young people with epilepsy.

Original source