This is probably the most difficult part of coming to grips with pseudoseizures. Most of these emotions were things which Melanie felt ashamed or afraid of. Facing them often meant that she faced things which she had tried to hide from herself as well as others. Finding the Triggers When doctors gave her the diagnosis of pseudoseizures, their recommendation was that she get counseling. Melanie has been in counseling for several years, since before the seizures began.
Counseling is only helpful if it addresses the cause of the problem.
The issues behind the pseudoseizures had not been brought up in her therapy. Anxiety had always been assumed to be related to school. In reality, it often had to do with fears about living independently and of being rejected by others. A need for attention was identified, but the cause of this need was unaddressed. The identification of a need for attention can feel very much like an accusation, but the truth is that attention-getting behavior is natural and comes in all forms.