Halloween – Trick or treat?
Halloween is a celebration which takes place on 31 October throughout the world which is dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints, martyrs and anyone who has died, in Mexico it’s known as ‘Day of the dead’, made famous by the Coco film.
Originally it is thought that the celebration was influences by Celtic Harvest Festivals, but more recently Halloween has evolved into a host of activities primarily involving entertainment for children including trick or treating, costumes, pumpkin carving, fun and games such as playing tricks, apple bobbling, telling scary stories or a Halloween disco.
With autumn leave and dark evenings, Halloween brings a wealth of excitement, flashes of colour, lights and dressing up. Although this year it’s likely to be lower key than normal, the potential frights, flashing lights, and a stash of chocolate and sweets can be potentially harmful for individuals who have epilepsy.
This Halloween have a few tricks up your sleeve to make sure that it’s a treat for all children, even those for whom Halloween can be harmful if not managed properly.

Safe not scary
The best way to make sure that you have a safe Halloween rather than a scary one of to be aware of the dangers.
For those who suffer from seizures, there are a range of factors which you need to be aware of:
- Keeping a calm atmosphere
- Stick to bedtimes
- Ensure your child has a restful night in the leadup to Halloween
- Make sure that your child is safe
- For Trick or treating stick to local areas to avoid any undue stress or anxiety that comes with unfamiliar environments.
- Stick to medication routines

After effects
You need to be aware of the impact of any lighting or decorations. Flashing lights are likely to increase the risk of a seizure. Instead ensure that they cover one eye with the palm of the hand and turn away from the trigger. This will reduce the intensity and number of brain cells stimulated by the lights.
Bucket loads of sweets are also a sure fire way to cause overload, so always have some lower sugar, organic snacks on hand to replace those treats In the baskets.

More help and information
If you require additional help and advice this Halloween, or in fact at any time, don?t hesitate to give our team a call on 01530 239 900.
If you are currently experiencing seizures, or care for someone who is, you could benefit from a range of epilepsy support monitors. All of our alarms and monitors have been designed to provide peace of mind and an increased independence for both individuals and their carers.