Quality of life and psychosocial issues in narcolepsy

Quality of life (QOL) in health care is traditionally measured by assessing the functional status of individuals. The meaning of QOL is personal and complex and varies according to individuals' perceptions of what is salient in their lives, type of impairment, and other socio-cultural variables. The construct of quality of life (QOL) is different from the concept of health status; however, health status is often used as an indicator of quality of life. A review of the literature on quality of life in narcolepsy shows extensive negative effects on the physical and mental health, work, and social health of patients. Moreover, treatment of narcolepsy is not optimal and even after successful treatment of the symptoms, patients may have adjustment problems. Social support enhances individuals' capacity to cope with their disabilities and improve the quality of their lives. Implications for developing comprehensive treatment modalities as well as further research on QOL indicators, the dynamics underlying the recovery process in narcolepsy, and the importance of longitudinal studies in group processes are discussed in this chapter.