Can people with Idiopathic Hypersomnia work? What kind of work can they perform?

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

Can people with Idiopathic Hypersomnia work?

Idiopathic Hypersomnia is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, prolonged nighttime sleep, and difficulty waking up. It can significantly impact a person's ability to function and perform daily activities. However, whether individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia can work or not depends on the severity of their symptoms and the accommodations available in their workplace.

While some individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia may find it challenging to maintain regular employment due to their excessive sleepiness and fatigue, others may be able to work with certain adjustments and support.

What kind of work can they perform?

The type of work that individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia can perform depends on various factors, including the severity of their symptoms, the flexibility of their work environment, and the accommodations available to them. Here are a few considerations:

1. Flexible work hours: Individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia may benefit from jobs that offer flexible work hours. This allows them to adjust their schedules to accommodate their sleep needs and minimize the impact of excessive daytime sleepiness.

2. Remote work: Jobs that can be done remotely or from home can be advantageous for individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia. This eliminates the need for commuting and provides a more comfortable environment for managing their sleepiness.

3. Sedentary or desk-based work: Jobs that involve minimal physical exertion and allow individuals to sit or lie down when needed can be suitable. This can include roles in administration, customer service, writing, programming, or other desk-based occupations.

4. Supportive work environment: A supportive work environment that understands the challenges of Idiopathic Hypersomnia and provides necessary accommodations can greatly enhance an individual's ability to work. This may include adjustments such as flexible breaks, nap opportunities, or the option to work in a quiet and dimly lit space.

5. Career counseling: It can be helpful for individuals with Idiopathic Hypersomnia to seek career counseling or guidance from professionals who can assess their abilities, limitations, and interests. They can provide personalized recommendations on suitable job options and assist in finding opportunities that align with their skills and needs.

It is important to note that the impact of Idiopathic Hypersomnia varies from person to person, and some individuals may find it more challenging to work than others. It is crucial for individuals with this condition to communicate openly with their employers, healthcare providers, and support networks to explore appropriate accommodations and strategies for managing their symptoms in the workplace.

Diseasemaps

Posted Jun 6, 2017 by Candice 2150

I am sure there are fields of work where a person with a good handle on their IH diagnosis can employment. I do not work and I have been deemed incapable of working, due to the severity of my illness. I cannot drive, I sleep at odd hours of the day and night. I would think that IH sufferers would do best with a work from home type employment.

Posted Jun 7, 2017 by Sarah 2050

I think it depends on the severeness of your condition and the treatments/strategies you have in place to manage symptoms. I don't think it matters what kind of career you pursue, any form of work is going to be challenging when you constantly feel sleep deprived

Posted Jun 11, 2017 by Maddy 600

The answer to this question depends completely on the severity of a person’s illness and also the effectiveness (if any) of any medication. Providing it is safe to do so, there should be no limits as to whether a person can or cannot work if they suffer from Idiopathic Hypersomnia. If barriers do present themselves in the workplace, the best point of contact (in the uk) is either a recognised union or a charity that can help in disability discrimination. Because regardless of whether a sufferer believes they are disabled, if the illness affects them on a day to day basis fo more than 12 months, then by definition, they are protected under the Equality Act 2010.

Posted Jan 10, 2018 by Donnbot 610

My answer is to suggest how someone with IH might start to think about a vocation change, by sharing my experience. Given the nature of IH, it has been very helpful for me to shift my focus to endeavors and activities that I can do myself, pretty much in solitude. Previously, I was a co-owner and creative director of a small graphic design studio. "Solitude" is not at all objectionable to me since my personality is distinctively introverted. I absolutely get my energy from the time I spend thinking, by myself. Writing has become a viable vocational activity for me. It's something that can be done whenever I am able to do it. It doesn't require much interaction with others, but when it does, that interaction is a well-defined segment of time (call it an "interview") that I can control and designate. Whatsmore, it's generally understood by most people, that writers are not as accessible as the average normal person. And if I am only able to communicate via email or other written correspondence for an extended period of time, which is very common with me, well people I deal with have no problem with that. Also, the "research" that writers are responsible for doing is in effect, a license to be eccentric, different, or even odd. (For many people that I come in contact with, being thought of as "eccentric" or even "odd" is just fine with me. It's just not possible or practical to tell my entire "IH story" to everyone I cross paths with.) For me, writing has become a very satisfying creative activity that works very well with my inability to "work well".

Posted Mar 8, 2018 by patrickcelam 100

I am involved with lots of people around the world with my condition. And before I had fibromalga symptoms I was able to do any proffesion. Usually on an evening though so I could fit in . I was a residential social worker and teacher for people with autism for many years. I think we make good carers and artists. We can run our own business and homes . It's just the stigma you have to watch.

Posted Oct 16, 2018 by Kathy 1600