Its onset sometimes follows stressful events, but such does not indicate that it is a psychological disorder. In fact, some breeds of dogs develop narcolepsy on a genetic basis. Narcolepsy may be complicated or complicated by emotional or physical problems rather than by narcolepsy, or that the patient may be malingering. Therfore treatment my have to involve a multi-discipline approach. There is no known cure for narcolepsy.
Treatment is aimed at control of the symptoms.
Lifestyle adjustments and learning to cope with the emotional and other effects of the disorder may improve functioning in work and social activities. Planned naps and sleeping may help to regulate daytime sleep and reduce the number of unplanned, sudden sleep attacks. Prescription medications may be required for some persons, including stimulants . Antidepressant medications such as may be helpful in reducing episodes of cataplexy but usually do not reduce the number of sleeping episodes.