Vivid Dreams. Was That Real? Narcolepsy, Memory, and the Blur Between Sleep and Reality

Description:
In this deeply personal episode, Alicia shares navigating the blurred lines between dreams and reality—where vivid, realistic dreams can reopen trauma, strain relationships, and leave lasting confusion. Diagnosed with narcolepsy at 26 after years of misdiagnosis and dismissal, Alicia shares how the condition affects memory, emotional processing, and daily life.

From dreaming about being late to work to reliving loss with alternate outcomes, this episode explores the emotional toll of narcolepsy and the healing power of community, advocacy, and self-awareness.

Topics Covered:

  • Vivid dreams vs. reality: how narcolepsy distorts memory
  • The emotional impact of dreaming about trauma with different outcomes
  • Misdiagnosis and the long road to a narcolepsy diagnosis
  • The role of head injuries and autoimmune factors
  • Medication gaps and the importance of self-advocacy
  • Finding support through online communities and practical tips

Published by Di Spillane

My name is Di Spillane and I am Living With Narcolepsy (N1) in Australia. Despite having lived with this disorder since childhood, I wasn't diagnosed with narcolepsy + cataplexy (N1) until late in life at the age of 49. Every person has their own personal journey, this website is where I will share my story about living with narcolepsy & cataplexy, and my long journey to receiving a diagnosis. I will share information and tips for managing day to day life in an effort to help others who live with narcolepsy, help those who suspect that they might have a sleep disorder by providing information about my experiences, and help the narcolepsy community by advocating, educating, and raising public awareness of this debilitating rare sleep disorder.

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