Episode 6: Invisible Struggles, Visible Strength: A Dentist’s Journey Through Epilepsy, Acceptance, and Advocacy
In this episode, we will explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Amee Shah —a dedicated dentist who has faced the challenges of epilepsy with incredible resilience and grace.
Amy is a dedicated healthcare professional in Chicago. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a passionate mental health advocate and openly shares her journey living with epilepsy. Dr. Shah is a powerful voice for those who cannot speak up for themselves, working to raise awareness and foster understanding about mental health and invisible illnesses. Her dedication to advocacy and her profession make her a respected figure in both the medical and mental health communities.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, affecting about 3.4 million people in the United States. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy often remains an invisible struggle, with many individuals facing not only the physical challenges of the condition but also the mental health impacts that come with it. The stigma and misconceptions surrounding epilepsy can exacerbate feelings of isolation and anxiety, making the journey even more difficult.
Dr. Amee Shah's experience with epilepsy began at a young age. Her first seizure at just eight years old set the stage for a lifelong journey of managing her condition while pursuing her dreams. As a full-time dentist, Amee has not only had to navigate the day-to-day realities of living with epilepsy but also advocate for mental health and invisible illnesses—issues that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
In this episode, we will explore how Amee’s experiences have shaped her commitment to advocacy and her role as hope for others facing similar challenges. We’ll explore how her journey has influenced her professional life, the importance of acceptance and self-care, and how she has used her voice to raise awareness and foster understanding.
We’ll also discuss the broader impact of epilepsy on mental health in America, where societal pressures and cultural stigmas can make it difficult for individuals to seek help and support. Amee’s story is a powerful reminder that despite invisible struggles, strength and resilience can shine brightly.
You can find Dr. Shah on IG at https://www.instagram.com/behindthebindis/
References and Resources
Mula, M., Kanner, A. M., Jetté, N., & Sander, J. W. (2021). Psychiatric Comorbidities in People With Epilepsy. Neurology. Clinical practice, 11(2), e112–e120. https://doi.org/10.1212/CPJ.0000000000000874
Saxena, V. S., & Nadkarni, V. V. (2011). Nonpharmacological treatment of epilepsy. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 14(3), 148–152. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-2327.85870
https://eliteayurveda.com/blog/epilepsy-symptoms-causes-and-ayurvedic-treatment/
Adiga, S. H., Adiga, R. S., Bhat, K. M. R., & Upadhya, D. (2024). Ayurveda therapy in the management of Epilepsy. Epilepsy & Behavior, 159, 110026. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.110026
https://www.epilepsy.com/what-is-epilepsy
https://esnoc.org
