I still haven't figured out how to handle the sleepiness in the middle of a converstation. I've fallen asleep on the phone when I feel wide awake. I feel it coming and can't do anything about it. I've learned to tell my husband and children. (No cataplexy.) I don't tell many people as they are afraid of narcolepsy.

Standing up and walking has helped me quite a bit. For people that know I have narcolepsy, I don't really have to explain. In situations where I don't want to explain, going to get a drink of water or going to the bathroom seems to work.

Thank you Westerg3. I have to be more aware. I think I can get through it and the next thing I know, I am asleep. This is especially true if I am on the phone with a friend who is a chatterbox. If I can be active and talk, I can stay awake. Constant listening puts me to sleep. The same happened in high school and college. I chewed a lot of gum to stay awake. I don't like to chew gum at home. I have not told anyone outside of my immediate family about the narcolepsy. I have told friends I have a sleep disorder. I wish I could relax on the couch when talking on the phone sometimes, but I guess I'll have to stick to activity as you have suggested. Thank you.