Can people with Narcolepsy work? What kind of work can they perform?

See how people with experience in Narcolepsy give their opinion about whether people with Narcolepsy can work and what kind of jobs are more appropriated for people with Narcolepsy

Can people with Narcolepsy work? What kind of work can they perform?

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden and uncontrollable sleep attacks, and disrupted nighttime sleep. While narcolepsy can present challenges in the workplace, many individuals with this condition are able to work and lead fulfilling professional lives.

It is important to note that the impact of narcolepsy can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience more severe symptoms that significantly affect their ability to work, while others may have milder symptoms that are more manageable. The key to successful employment for individuals with narcolepsy lies in understanding their own limitations, seeking appropriate treatment, and making necessary accommodations in the workplace.

Types of work suitable for individuals with narcolepsy:

1. Flexible work schedules: Jobs that offer flexible work hours can be beneficial for individuals with narcolepsy. This allows them to manage their symptoms and schedule their work around periods of increased alertness. Flexible schedules can include part-time work, job-sharing, or telecommuting.

2. Desk-based or sedentary jobs: Careers that involve predominantly desk-based or sedentary work can be well-suited for individuals with narcolepsy. These jobs typically require less physical exertion and provide a more controlled environment, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries due to sudden sleep attacks.

3. Creative or intellectual work: Many individuals with narcolepsy excel in creative or intellectual fields. Jobs such as writing, graphic design, programming, research, or other mentally stimulating roles can be a good fit. These occupations often allow for greater flexibility and can be adapted to accommodate the individual's needs.

4. Supportive work environments: Working in an understanding and supportive environment can make a significant difference for individuals with narcolepsy. Employers who are willing to make reasonable accommodations, such as providing a quiet space for naps or allowing flexible break times, can greatly enhance the productivity and well-being of employees with narcolepsy.

5. Entrepreneurship or self-employment: Starting a business or working as a freelancer can provide individuals with narcolepsy the flexibility and control they need to manage their symptoms effectively. Being their own boss allows them to set their own schedules, take breaks when necessary, and create a work environment that suits their specific needs.

Accommodations and strategies for individuals with narcolepsy in the workplace:

- Nap breaks: Allowing short, scheduled nap breaks during the workday can help individuals with narcolepsy manage their symptoms and improve alertness.

- Flexible work hours: Adjusting work schedules to accommodate the individual's natural sleep patterns and periods of increased alertness can enhance productivity.

- Creating a sleep-friendly environment: Providing a quiet, comfortable space for employees to rest during breaks can be beneficial.

- Open communication: Encouraging open dialogue between employees and employers about narcolepsy and its impact can lead to better understanding and support in the workplace.

- Education and awareness: Educating coworkers and supervisors about narcolepsy can help create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

It is important for individuals with narcolepsy to work closely with their healthcare providers, including sleep specialists, to manage their symptoms effectively. With proper treatment, self-care, and workplace accommodations, many people with narcolepsy can pursue successful careers and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.

Diseasemaps

Depends on the severity of their narcolepsy and how well they have it managed/treated. I work in accounts full time, however I can't drive. I manage but I don't have much of a personal life outside work.

Posted Mar 2, 2017 by Rachael 1050

Yes, I am a sen teacher

Posted Mar 2, 2017 by Sarah 1000

I cannot answer for other people.
Others have a much harder time dealing with there narcolepsy than i do.
It is down to the individual to decide if the job is suitable for them. I work in security sometimes 12 hour shifts on my feet. This job wouldn't be suitable for some but works for me...just.

Posted Mar 3, 2017 by Dawnie73 600

People can work, it depends on the person. I personally can only work part time and in the mornings.

Posted Apr 27, 2017 by Jennah 1100

With proper medication: people with narcolepsy can ABSOLUTELY work. Depending on the severity, people would choose not to do shift work late or work without activity (so sitting for long periods of time isn't great)

Posted Apr 28, 2017 by Emily 1115

Of course!
I work 80% as an electrician
I need to have a job where i'm active, if i'm sedentary for too long I fall asleep.
And it can't be too monotonously.

Posted May 7, 2017 by Malin 1050

Often a person with narcolepsy can't work full time, even though they have medications. I'm able to work around 25% and still have a relatively normal life.

Posted May 7, 2017 by 450

Some can, some can't work. The work depends solely on the level of severity of symptoms along with the person's flexibility in schedule, stress level, and determination. No one case of narcolepsy is exactly alike.

Posted May 10, 2017 by Susan 1000

It depends on how severe the narcolepsy is and whether cataplexy is present or not. I think that maybe 5 percent of people who have narcolepsy probably can work in any field. If someone has uncontrolled and unmediated narcolepsy, it may be very difficult to keep a full time job.

Posted Jun 3, 2017 by Tabbij13 830

Some can some can't. Work thats not to full on.

Posted Jun 12, 2017 by Faith 2000

We can work. Most days can be difficult.

Posted Jun 13, 2017 by Karen 2000

Yes, I have worked factory jobs but mostly secretarial or clerical jobs

Posted Aug 17, 2017 by Laurie 2271

Yes. Active, social and stimulating work is best to avoid sleep attacks.

Posted Oct 6, 2017 by Aaron 2811

It depends on the severity of their narcolepsy and how well treatment alleviates their symptoms. For folks with mild narcolepsy, there are very few limitations. For more severe narcolepsy,a person may be completely disabled. All people with Narcolepsy should take great care and talk to a doctor to see if you are well enough to operate a motor vehicle or heavy machinery.

Posted Oct 26, 2017 by Cyn 610

Yes they can work. Although they should have support and justification when in crisis. And employers should be benefitiated for giving work to narcoleptics. Because in some periods you have crisis.
Stress is my first cause of cataplexy atacks, and so work can be very difficult and can be a mean of gettibg sick. Professions that should not be chosen are: bus,taxi, any veicule driver, doctor because you'll have blackouts, nurse, a profession where you deal with much stress like being a director of an enterprise, etc.
You should have the right to retirement when you already have a career. But if have some kind of timetable that can ajust or do some mechanical work, or can miss for some days your work, perhaps you can deal well with disease and your profession.

Posted Nov 21, 2017 by sns 1510

With the right medication and self-awareness, I think people with narcolepsy can work in just about any field. There are some fields I don't think PWN should work in (pilot, for example). The biggest factor in being successful in the work force, in my opinion, is having coworkers and managers who are understanding about the disorder. Knowing that a coworker might need a nap or two during the day, knowing that mornings are probably going to be a struggle for a PWN - these are all things that can help.

Posted May 21, 2018 by chazer25 3050

I honestly believe if properly medicated someone with Narcolepsy can do whatever they want. I’ve personally learned that working on my feet really helps me. I wouldn’t want a desk job but I could do one on the medicine I’m on. I’m not sure of the percentage of people with narcolepsy in any veils but I’m sure it would surprise you to know we live perfectly happy and productive lives.

Posted Jul 7, 2018 by Casey Veater 1100

THERE are ppl that do work in limited conditions.
Operating hand tool..drive.
Percentage....i can't really say.

Posted Apr 16, 2019 by KLebal 300

It depends on the severity of the narcolepsy. Some people just need a few naps during their work day while others can't work at all.

Posted Aug 4, 2019 by Ottery 1300

Without correct treatment I was not able to work. I slept about 20 hrs a day. I feel with treatment you can do anything. I know work with people with disabilities.

Posted Oct 13, 2021 by [email protected] 1700

Yes, PWN can work. Everyone’s experience and ability is different. There are some industries that regulate requiring stability in medication. My best guess is that about 70% of PWN work.

Posted Oct 13, 2021 by MandyW 600

No. People can't work in any field. Some situations can become dangerous when you're lacking concentration. There are no numbers on people with narcolepsy who work in any field.

Posted Jul 13, 2023 by Feri Ascencion 1833

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if, since then. but jobs in which they can rest every time x

Posted Apr 27, 2017 by marisa rosello 1050

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Yes, with a medical treatment.
A business that moves préfèrence to stay stimulated and so prevent the seizures of Drowsiness.

Posted Apr 27, 2017 by Laïli 1000

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Depends on the degree of narcolepsy. If it is mild, and the job center makes it easy to work with. A narcolepsy severe difficult to much.

Posted Nov 2, 2017 by Juan 1500