Snooze Community

Abstract: Snooze Community explores societal issues about hypersomnia disorders. Hypersomnia disorders, including Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia, are characterized primarily by excessive daytime sleepiness. There is a significant lack of awareness and understanding of these disorders among both the general population and the medical community, leading to stigma. Inaccurate media portrayals, often the only exposure people have to these conditions, trivialize them and contribute to misconceptions and shame. This misperception adversely impacts the quality of life for those affected, including their daily functioning, mental health, social isolation, higher expenses, lower incomes, employment rates, and access to healthcare. The Snooze Community Resource Center was established to raise awareness, enhance well-being, ensure comfort, and foster a supportive community for individuals with hypersomnia disorders. Izzy envisions the Snooze Community as a prototype for future support systems.

Thesis Question: How can we support those who are suffering from hypersomnia disorders and provide access to all of the resources needed to enhance their quality of life in a convenient and holistic environment?

Thesis Statement: For those diagnosed with hypersomnia disorders, lack of awareness and insufficient societal and medical structure leads to a diminished standard of living. Creating a resource will help raise awareness, increase well-being, ensure comfort, and develop a sense of community support.