Members' Business — S6M-09507 Alasdair Allan: Epilepsy Scotland Report, Epilepsy on the Mind

That the Parliament recognises the findings of the Epilepsy Scotland report, Epilepsy on the Mind, on the impact of epilepsy on mental health, which was published on 16 June 2023; understands that epilepsy is a condition that it is estimated 58,000 people in Scotland, including people in Na h-Eileanan an Iar, are living with, making it one of the most common serious neurological conditions; recognises that this report, which followed a national survey undertaken by over 700 people with epilepsy in Scotland, highlights, in particular, that 54% of responses said that epilepsy has a "significant impact" on their mental health; further recognises that 46% of responses said that they have anxiety, and one in three have depression; notes the recommendation that there needs to be wider-reaching, epilepsy-specific mental health support available in Scotland, and for there to be greater societal understanding, including by employers and education establishments, of epilepsy and how it can affect a person’s life; commends Epilepsy Scotland for its work in conducting the survey and creating this significant report, and considers that the report's recommendations can improve the lives of people with epilepsy.