Although narcolepsy can have a major indirect impact on concentration, attention span and short term memory, it does not affect cognition or intelligence directly. However, without measures being taken to mitigate its effects, a diagnosis of narcolepsy may have a significant impact on a student's ability to learn.
In 2010 there was a startling increase in narcolepsy across the UK and northern Europe. With new cases developing on a weekly basis, some doctors described it as an epidemic.
This research programme is investigating school performance and well-being in children with narcolepsy aged 8-16 years old. The project has been set up by The University of Leeds and has received ethical approval from the School of Psychology's Research Ethics Committee (ref: 15-0198, date: 03.08.15). The research is taking place in the United Kingdom and in the Republic of Ireland.
Many young people with narcolepsy need to take doses of medication while at school. Particularly for younger children, who have not reached an age at which they are ready to take care of and be responsible for their own medication, it is vital that the school has an appropriate policy and adequate procedures in place.
