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Narcolepsy Misconceptions

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about narcolepsy?

  1. This one from my mother before I finally stopped talking to her: “Amy, you’re living in a fantasy if you think you can just sleep and cut your work hours down and not do more to move up in the world. Stop sleeping! Whatever you’ve got is what you got! Deal with it!” Or, from coworkers “Your sleeping on breaks is making a bad example to the other workers!” and “Yeah, I’m tired too”.

    1. How awful. I wish you could still have a relationship with your mother, but you are wise to put your physical and mental health first. Do you still experience that kind of ignorance from coworkers? Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)

  2. That I am lazy. That narcolepsy can be cured naturally with more vitamins, warm milk at night, or more caffeine during the day.

    1. Maddedning, isn't it, ? If only it were that easy. - Lori (Team Member)

  3. People think you are lazy, or they will say just get over it already I get tired to. You try to explain that your tired and my tired are two totally different things. People try to understand somewhat but in the long run it's just easier to keep things to yourself. Most especially with Cataplexy. Trying to explain that to others is like talking to a brick wall.

    1. We hear you, ! Here is an article from one of our advocates about that same issue: https://narcolepsy.sleep-disorders.net/living/not-tired-like-me. I hope it helps you feel less alone. Best wishes. - Lori (Team Member)

  4. I have sleep apnea as well as narcolepsy so even medicated, I'm always tired around lunchtime. I have tried to explain to people why and nobody ever wants to listen or they look at me like I'm lying.

    1. Some people find sleep disorders entirely incomprehensible. I wish you didn't have to contend with that. You have enough on your plate, for sure. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)

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