Mood Disorders in Women with Epilepsy

Mood Disorders in Women with Epilepsy
By Cynthia L. Harden, M.D. and Laura Ponticello, B.S.N., RN

Presbyterian Hospital, Cornell Medical Center who will discuss the epidemiology of mood disorders for women with epilepsy as well as the factors associated with mood disorders for women, including seizure severity, home and workplace environment, and hormonal influences on seizure occurrence. They will also cover methods of mood assessment treatment options for mood disorders in women with epilepsy, including risks of some medical treatments for persons with epilepsy.


Instructions:

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Lectures

Mood Disorders in Women with Epilepsy

Cynthia L. Harden, M.D., Associate Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY Dr. Harden has been working with adult patients with epilepsy for the past 15 years. She has had a long-standing research and clinical interest in both issues for women with epilepsy and mood disorders for persons with epilepsy. Therefore, she can provide a unique perspective on the intersection of these problems, and will discuss mood disorders in women with epilepsy.

Laura Ponticello, B.S.N, RN, Adult Epilepsy Nurse Clinician, Department of Neurology New York Presbyterian Hospital, Cornell Medical Center, Dept of Neurology New York, NY Ms. Ponticello has been working with adult patients with epilepsy for eight years. She collaborates on therapeutic research trials, clinical issues and education for women with epilepsy and mood disorders of persons with epilepsy.

Target Audience

This program is designed for neuroscience and advanced practice nurses, school nurses, social workers, school psychologists, pharmacists and others involved in the care of persons with epilepsy who are interested in enhancing their ability to treat and counsel their patients.

Program Goal

To offer professionals in epilepsy care the most up-to-date tools and knowledge so that they can provide the best treatment and education to patients and their families.

Program Objectives

Upon completion of this program it is anticipated that participants will gain a clearer understanding of various aspects of epilepsy, including: