HealthJuly 16, 2026

narcolepsy

/ˈnɑːrkəlepsi/

Definition

A chronic neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable tendency to fall asleep during the day.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek 'narke' (numbness or stupor) and 'lepsis' (an attack or seizure). It was coined in the late 19th century to describe sudden, involuntary episodes of sleep.

In the news

In this article, narcolepsy is mentioned as one of several mental health and neurological conditions that Miriam struggled with, which made it difficult for standard drug treatment programs to support her needs effectively.

Connecticut judge pushes for mental health court after daughter’s overdose death

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