Narcolepsy is generally misunderstood by the public and often by many health professionals. Because awareness and understanding remains limited and often inaccurate, it is frequently the subject of stereotypes resulting from myths and misconceptions built over time. It is not uncommon to see entertainment programs portraying narcolepsy as humorously falling asleep rather than as a serious health condition requiring medical attention. Unfortunately, misconceptions about narcolepsy can lead to stigmatization among people living with the disorder.
“Narcolepsy is not a real condition. It’s simply people who probably don’t go to bed early enough, sleep too late or have poor sleep hygiene.”
Narcolepsy is a serious and involuntary neurological sleep disorder and is not caused by poor sleep hygiene. Narcolepsy affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep wake cycles. The boundaries between wakefulness and sleep in people with narcolepsy are less distinct, and elements of sleep and wakefulness can mix. This sleep disorder affects about 1 in 2000 men and women, can begin in childhood or adolescence and is often diagnosed only later in adult life because of a lack of awareness of the disorder.
“Narcolepsy is simply laziness in disguise.”
Studies on narcolepsy demonstrate the damaging impacts on an individual’s quality of life and psychosocial wellbeing. People with narcolepsy report that they are unable to perform at work or at school as well as they would like because of their symptoms. People with narcolepsy report feeling socially isolated, inferior to others, and hesitant to disclose their disorder to others, fearing the consequences and reaction they could receive. Despite the challenges people with narcolepsy live with, they are achievement-oriented, and try to make the most of their waking periods. Labeling people with narcolepsy with terms such as « lazy » or « not-performance oriented » only adds to the stigmas already associated with the disorder.
“It’s a matter of willpower. With a little more willpower, people who suddenly have the urge to sleep should manage to not suddenly fall asleep.”
Narcolepsy is a life-long neurological condition without a definitive cure. It is a serious and involuntary sleep disorder that is beyond an individual’s control, and this is what makes it a challenge. Patients with narcolepsy learn to cope with their condition and often successfully manage their school and work activities to minimize the impact on their daily lives, but it is not easy despite all the willpower often involved.
“People living with narcolepsy can’t succeed in school or at work.”
Narcolepsy is a manageable condition. While it poses challenges to a person’s daily life, social life, school or work life, people with narcolepsy can lead fulfilling lives.