According to the National Center on Sleep Disorders, about 70 million Americans suffer from sleep problems; nearly 60 percent have a chronic disorder. Sleep disorders include sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and others.
American Academy of Sleep Medicine
The website of a professional membership organization, this site is geared primarily to its members. Consumers will find some general information about sleep disorders, a geographic guide to sleep centers, and links.
American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA)
The ASAA is a nonprofit membership organization “dedicated to reducing injury, disability, and death from sleep apnea and to enhancing the well-being of those affected by this common disorder. The ASAA promotes education and awareness, the ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network of voluntary mutual support groups, research, and continuous improvement of care.” Its website includes an online information packet, ask the doctor and ask the lawyer forms, links, and membership information.
Narcolepsy Network
The Narcolepsy Network is a non-profit membership organization whose members include “people who have narcolepsy (or related sleep disorders), their families and friends, and professionals involved in treatment, research, and public education regarding narcolepsy.” Its website is primarily for and about members, although there is a “frequently asked questions” page and a current newsletter.
National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR)
Part of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, NCSDR provides research, training, technology transfer, and coordination of government and nonprofit efforts. Its website includes research information and a wide variety of online publications for professionals, patients and the public.
National Sleep Foundation (NSF)
NSF is “an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving public health and safety by achieving public understanding of sleep and sleep disorders, and by supporting public education, sleep-related research, and advocacy.” Its website includes information about sleep disorders, news, online publications, links, and a geographic guide to “NSF Community Sleep Awareness Partners®,” which are dues paying members of NSF.
Nemours Foundation
The Nemours Foundation has several good articles for parents of children with sleep problems, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea and What Sleep Is and Why All Kids Need It
Restless Leg Syndrome Foundation
The website of this nonprofit organization is geared primarily to providing information for and about members. There is a good online booklet, sample newsletters, links, and a state-by-state guide to support groups.
Talk About Sleep
Though we’re usually reluctant to list commercial sites, especially those sponsored by drug companies or other special interests, Talkaboutsleep.com is a great place for news about sleep disorders, live chats, message boards, general information, and a huge, categorized collection of links.
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