Tips for Living With Narcolepsy

Four people living with narcolepsy with arms around each other looking into the distance

Narcolepsy Shouldn’t Stop You From Living Your Life

Living with narcolepsy is difficult, and finding ways to manage your excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) or cataplexy can be a challenge.

Tips for living with narcolepsy video thumbnail

Tips From Others Living With Narcolepsy

Hear other people living with narcolepsy share their tips for managing day to day with narcolepsy.

Managing day to day

  • Icon depicting a journal or diary

    Keep a journal or diary

    Tracking your symptoms and sleep patterns can help you and your healthcare provider better understand your narcolepsy.

  • Alarm clock icon

    Maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule

    Go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning.

  • Icon depicting a person napping

    Take short naps during the day

    Brief morning or afternoon naps (about 15 minutes) may help you feel less sleepy later in the day.

  • Icon of coffee cup with exclamation point

    Avoid caffeine in the evening

    Avoid coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages, especially in the evening.

  • Icon showing alcohol with a slash through it

    Limit alcohol

    Alcoholic drinks can interfere with normal sleep patterns.

  • Icon of person practicing mindfulness

    Reduce stress

    Practice mindfulness by focusing on the present or joining a wellness program.

Keep these tips handy. Save them to refer back to later.

This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider. Always talk to your healthcare provider about any symptoms you may be feeling.

Kristen, a real person living with narcolepsy, sitting with her laptop

Access resources, videos, and more

Connecting with others in the narcolepsy community

Connect with others
in the narcolepsy
community