Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder where individuals perform activities typically associated with wakefulness while still asleep. Sleepwalking episodes usually happen during the deepest stage of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, often within the first few hours of falling asleep. While more common in children, with most outgrowing it by their teenage years, it can also affect adults.
The Truth About Waking a Sleepwalker
A persistent misconception suggests that waking a sleepwalker can cause severe harm, such as a heart attack, brain damage, or permanent psychological trauma. However, medical experts confirm that waking a sleepwalker is not physically dangerous. The real consequences of an abrupt awakening are temporary and involve the sleepwalker’s immediate state of consciousness.
Upon being woken, a sleepwalker will likely experience disorientation and confusion. This occurs because their brain is abruptly pulled from a deep sleep state, making it difficult for them to regain full awareness quickly. They may appear startled, agitated, or briefly aggressive due to sudden disruption and lack of understanding.
Waking a sleepwalker forcefully can trigger a stress response, which may lead to fear or anxiety. They often have little to no memory of the sleepwalking episode, so waking up in an unexpected location can be profoundly disorienting. Despite these temporary reactions, the act of sleepwalking itself often poses more danger due to potential accidents than the act of waking them.
Guiding a Sleepwalker Safely
The preferred approach when encountering a sleepwalker is to gently guide them back to bed without fully waking them. This method helps minimize their disorientation and potential agitation. Speak to them in a calm, soft voice to avoid startling them.
If a gentle touch is needed, light contact on their arm or shoulder can help redirect them. Avoid sudden movements or physical restraint, which could intensify confusion or lead to a defensive reaction. Guiding them back to their sleeping area allows them to continue their rest with minimal disturbance.
Ensuring the sleepwalker’s immediate safety is important. Remove any potential obstacles from their path and secure the environment by locking doors and windows. Clear clutter from floors and consider installing gates on stairways to prevent falls. If a sleepwalker is in immediate danger, such as near hazards, then a gentle awakening may be necessary to ensure their safety.