It has become increasingly acknowledged that the social and psychologi
cal consequences of epilepsy may be more debilitating than the epilept
ic seizures themselves. This study, which formed part of an ongoing co
mmunity health project which was carried out in the South African vill
age of Mamre, was aimed at gaining an understanding of some of these p
sychosocial aspects. Sixteen respondents were interviewed, with the us
e of a semi-structured interview schedule. The findings revealed that
respondents, as well as their families, had accepted the epilepsy and
learnt to cope with it, although some respondents felt stigmatized by
the epilepsy and made various attempts to conceal it from outsiders. P
roblems which were caused by epilepsy included the fear of going out u
naccompanied, as well as forgetfulness and irritable mood. Few respond
ents had epilepsy which could be described as well-controlled, yet non
e admitted being dissatisfied with their treatment. Implications of th
e study included the need to assist the respondents and their families
to better understand the management of epilepsy, so that every effort
would be made to attain maximal seizure control.