For many people, the first time they witness a seizure is completely unexpected. It can occur at home, at work, at school, or in a public place, and in that moment, panic often takes over. People worry about doing the wrong thing, causing harm, or not acting quickly enough.
Seizures are more common than many people realise. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 50 million people worldwide live with epilepsy, and about one in every 100 people is affected, meaning that most of us will encounter a seizure at some point in our lives. National Epilepsy Week (10–16 February) is an important reminder that knowing simple seizure first aid can help prevent injuries, reduce fear, and assist someone to recover safely.
The good news is that you don’t need medical training to help, just calm action and the right information.

What Is a Seizure?

A seizure occurs when there is a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This can temporarily affect movement, awareness, behaviour, or consciousness. Seizures vary widely in appearance and duration, which is why they are often misunderstood.
Some seizures are dramatic and involve convulsions, while others are brief and subtle. Understanding this variety helps people respond appropriately and avoid making harmful assumptions.

Different Types of Seizures to Be Aware Of

Not all seizures involve shaking or collapsing, and recognising this can prevent confusion and stigma.
Focal seizures affect one area of the brain and may cause unusual movements, strange sensations, or changes in awareness. A person may seem awake but act confused or unresponsive.
Absence seizures are more common in children and involve brief staring spells that last a few seconds. These episodes are often mistaken for daydreaming and can happen multiple times a day.
Tonic-clonic seizures are the most recognisable type. They involve a loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening, and jerking movements, followed by a recovery phase where the person may feel tired or confused.
Knowing that seizures can appear differently helps bystanders respond calmly and avoid myths, such as assuming someone is fainting, intoxicated, or behaving intentionally.

What to Do If Someone Has a Seizure

If you witness someone having a seizure, your priority is to keep them safe until it passes.
Stay calm and give space
Remain calm and ask others to step back. Too many people crowding around can increase stress and risk of injury.
Protect their head
Place something soft, such as a jacket, folded clothing, or a bag, under their head to prevent head injuries.
Time the seizure
If you can, note how long the seizure lasts. This information is important if medical help is needed.
Loosen tight clothing
Gently loosen tight clothing around the neck to help with breathing.
Turn them onto their side once movements stop
After the seizure ends, roll the person onto their side into the recovery position. This helps keep the airway clear and reduces the risk of choking.
Stay with them as they recover
After a seizure, the person may feel confused, embarrassed, emotional, or extremely tired. Speak calmly, explain what happened, and stay with them until they are fully alert.

What NOT to Do During a Seizure

Well-meaning actions can sometimes unintentionally cause harm. To prevent this, avoid the following:

• Do not put anything in their mouth, as this can cause serious injury.
• Do not restrain their movements.
• Do not give food, drink, or medication during the seizure.
• Do not attempt CPR unless breathing does not resume after the seizure.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Help

Most seizures do not require emergency treatment, but medical help should be sought if:

• The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
• Another seizure follows immediately thereafter.
• The person is injured during the seizure.
• The person is pregnant or has diabetes.
• Breathing does not return to normal afterwards.
• It is the person’s first known seizure.

After the Seizure: What Happens Next?

Recovery looks different for everyone. Some people feel better within minutes, while others need time to rest. Headaches, muscle soreness, confusion, or emotional distress are common. Offer reassurance, privacy if requested, and avoid overwhelming them with questions.
Living with epilepsy does not mean a limited life. With proper medical care and understanding from those around them, many people manage their condition successfully and remain active and independent.

Conclusion

Seizures can be frightening to witness, but fear doesn’t have to control the situation. Knowing how to respond, and understanding that seizures don’t always look the same, can help protect people from harm and create safer, more supportive communities.
Ongoing access to medical advice and follow-up care plays an important role in managing epilepsy and seizure-related concerns. With Affinity Health, members have access to 24/7 Telehealth consultations, managed GP visits, and support for diagnosis and specialist referrals — helping ensure that seizure concerns are addressed promptly and professionally.
Awareness, preparation, and calm action can turn a frightening moment into one handled with confidence and care.