Learn about seizure types, get support, and access practical seizure first aid training for workplaces and individuals.
You don’t need a diagnosis or referral to contact us.
If you have questions about seizures, epilepsy, or something you’ve witnessed — we’re here to help.
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A seizure happens when there is a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can affect movement, awareness, behaviour, emotions, or sensations.
Not all seizures look the same.
Some involve shaking or collapse, while others may look like:
Seizures are generally grouped into three main types.
We provide practical, easy-to-understand training for:
✅ Workplaces
✅ Construction & trade teams
✅ Community groups
✅ Families and carers
✅ Individuals
Many people don’t realise:
Training helps create safer workplaces and more confident teams.
Seizure first aid training is subsidised for construction workers. You can:
The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classifies seizures into three main types: focal seizures, generalised seizures, and unknown onset seizures. Some people also experience events that look like seizures but are not caused by epilepsy, known as non-epileptic seizures.
Seizures happen when there is a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain. They can affect movement, awareness, emotions, behaviour, or sensations. Seizures are often described as either:
Every person’s seizure experience can be different.
Focal seizures (previously called partial seizures) begin in one specific area of the brain and may remain localised or spread to other areas.
A person may either remain aware or have impaired awareness during the seizure.
Symptoms may include:
Sometimes a focal seizure occurs before a larger seizure, acting as a warning sign often called an aura — though it is actually part of the seizure itself.
Sometimes the beginning of a seizure is not seen or cannot be clearly identified, even after testing. These seizures are classified as unknown onset until further information becomes available. A person’s awareness during these seizures may vary.
Generalised seizures involve both sides of the brain from the start and usually affect awareness or consciousness. Because awareness is altered, these seizures may increase the risk of injury.
Tonic-clonic seizures
The body stiffens (tonic phase) followed by rhythmic jerking movements (clonic phase). The person loses awareness and may fall, make sounds, drool, or lose bladder control. These seizures usually last 1–3 minutes, and recovery often includes tiredness, confusion, or headache. A seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes is a medical emergency.
Absence seizures
Brief lapses in awareness, often lasting only a few seconds. A person may appear to stare blankly or “zone out” and quickly resume activity afterwards. These are common in children and may be mistaken for daydreaming.
Myoclonic seizures
Sudden, brief shock-like muscle jerks, usually affecting the upper body or arms. Awareness is usually preserved.
Tonic seizures
Sudden muscle stiffening that may cause a person to fall. These often occur during sleep and are typically brief.
Atonic seizures
A sudden loss of muscle tone causing collapse or head drop, sometimes called “drop attacks.” Although very short, they can lead to injury due to falls.
Clonic seizures
Repeated rhythmic jerking movements affecting both sides of the body. These are relatively rare and often occur as part of other seizure types.
Not all seizures are caused by epilepsy. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) can look similar to epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical brain activity.
PNES are real, involuntary events and are not consciously produced. They are believed to be complex physical responses to significant psychological stress or trauma. Many people experience long diagnostic journeys before receiving the correct diagnosis.
Diagnosis usually involves neurological testing to rule out epilepsy and other medical conditions. Treatment focuses on psychological therapies and appropriate support, as anti-seizure medications do not treat PNES.
Understanding PNES as a genuine health condition is important in reducing stigma and helping people access effective care.
Grant Cameron Community Centre
Level 1B, 27 Mulley Street
Holder ACT 2611
Postal Address:
PO Box 3744
Weston Creek ACT 2611
Mon to Thurs: 9am to 4pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed
