Exploring psychological wellbeing and quality of life in young people with narcolepsy

Section A
This is a narrative literature review of research investigating the psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life in children and adolescents with narcolepsy. The review summarises and evaluates thirteen studies that found psychosocial difficulties and diminished quality of life in this population. Clinical implications include the need for preventive strategies subsequent to diagnosis, alongside psychological interventions targeting psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life. Research implications include prioritising the exploration of underlying mechanisms that may account for these findings, whilst taking into account the methodological recommendations emphasized.

Section B
This is a mixed methods cross-sectional study of young adults with narcolepsy. It explores their illness perceptions, coping strategies and psychosocial outcomes, and the potential relationships between these variables. Results showed that this population experiences high levels of perceived threat in relation to their condition, poorer quality of life than the general young adult population, and moderate levels of anxiety and depression. They also engage in predominantly problem-focused coping strategies and find sleeping, napping and taking medication the most helpful ways to cope with their condition. Finally, higher levels of illness threat perception were associated with lower physical and mental quality of life. The implications of findings for research and clinical practice with this population are discussed.