Information for Carers and family

Dealing with bereavement

Although bereavement affects us in very different ways, the experience of others may help us to acknowledge and face the reality of our own feelings, while reassuring us that coping with the loss in our own way is acceptable and normal.Read more

Encephalitis: The difference we make

How the Encephalitis Society makes a difference to people who have been affected by encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)Read more

The challenge of caring

If you are caring for someone affected by encephalitis, it is important to acknowledge that this is likely to have a significant effect on you, and you too will need support.Read more

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Event sponsorship

Find out more about the sponsorship packages that we have available for events organised by the Encephalitis Society

Hannah's Story

Hannah, from Dublin, was hospitalised days after her 21st birthday and treated for depression, anxiety and borderline psychosis before she was diagnosed her with Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis. This is her story.

My Brain: My Story

Join us in Edinburgh for a special opportunity to hear and share the real-life stories of encephalitis.

My Brain: My Family

A unique event which gives families the chance to work with a Neuropsychologist on family resilience and then travel the Thames on the London Fire Brigade Fire Boats

What is encephalitis?

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by an infection or through the immune system attacking the brain in error.

Herpes Simplex virus encephalitis

Herpes simplex encephalitis is a type of infectious encephalitis which happens when herpes simplex virus (HSV) enters the brain. Usually, it begins with ‘flu-like’ symptoms followed by neurological deterioration, which may include personality and behavioural changes, seizures, weakness and difficulties in communication.

Anti-NMDAR encephalitis

Anti-NMDAR encephalitis is an autoimmune disease that causes psychiatric features, confusion, memory loss and seizures followed by a movement disorder, loss of consciousness and changes in blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.

Limbic encephalitis

The term ‘limbic encephalitis’ (LE) describes the condition when limbic areas of the brain are inflamed (swollen) and consequently not functioning properly. Most forms of LE fall into two main categories: infectious encephalitis and autoimmune encephalitis.

Guidelines for recovery

No two people with encephalitis have the same outcomes. People recover at different paces. Recovery can be helped by having lots of rest, good nutrition, helpful social network and support from professionals.

Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is an infectious encephalitis caused by Japanese encephalitis virus transmitted by mosquitoes, called ‘Culex’ mosquitoes.

Measles infection and encephalitis

Measles causes encephalitis in children with measles infection. Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a very effective way to prevent against these diseases.

Get support (now)

Our Helpline is here to help you with any questions about encephalitis

Hashimoto's encephalopathy

Hashimoto's encephalopathy is a rare condition, which is probably of autoimmune origin. The concept of HE is becoming fragmented into a number of other types of autoimmune encephalitis which appear to have their own autoantibodies, prognosis and associated features.

Encephalitis-guidelines for travellers

With increasing numbers of people travelling worldwide and the international spread of viruses (e.g. Zika virus), it is important to highlight the risk of infectious encephalitis and their preventive measures.