Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder that has long fascinated—and often confused—many people. From tales of individuals wandering the streets to the persistent warning not to wake a sleepwalker, myths and misconceptions abound. Understanding the truth behind sleepwalking can help dispel unnecessary fear and promote a better understanding of this mysterious phenomenon.
Myth 1: It’s Dangerous to Wake a Sleepwalker
Fact: One of the most widespread myths is that waking a sleepwalker is dangerous. People often fear that waking a sleepwalker might result in them having a heart attack, becoming violent, or facing severe disorientation. While waking a sleepwalker can sometimes cause confusion or agitation, it’s generally not dangerous to do so.
In fact, letting a sleepwalker roam freely poses a greater risk than waking them. Sleepwalkers may injure themselves by tripping over objects, walking into walls, or even leaving the house in a confused state. If you encounter a sleepwalker, it’s usually best to guide them gently back to bed rather than allow them to wander.
Tip: If you do need to wake a sleepwalker, do so calmly and gently to avoid startling them. Sometimes, just directing them back to bed can resolve the situation.
Myth 2: Sleepwalkers Are Acting Out Their Dreams
Fact: Another common misconception is that sleepwalking occurs because the person is acting out their dreams. In reality, sleepwalking typically happens during non-REM (NREM) sleep, specifically in the deep sleep stages (also known as slow-wave sleep). Dreams, on the other hand, primarily occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, when the brain is more active.
Since sleepwalking happens during a much deeper, less active stage of sleep, it is not linked to dreaming. The actions performed during a sleepwalking episode are generally not influenced by dream content but rather are unconscious behaviors triggered by other factors, such as sleep deprivation, stress, or genetics.
Myth 3: Sleepwalking Only Happens in Children
Fact: While it’s true that sleepwalking is more common in children, it can also occur in adults. Children are more prone to sleepwalking because they spend more time in deep NREM sleep, and their nervous systems are still maturing. However, sleepwalking in adults is not as rare as people may think, and it can be triggered by factors like stress, alcohol consumption, medications, or sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
Adult sleepwalking episodes may be more complex and longer-lasting than those experienced by children, and they can sometimes indicate an underlying sleep disorder.
Myth 4: Sleepwalking Is Linked to Mental Health Issues
Fact: While stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders can increase the likelihood of sleepwalking, the condition itself is not directly tied to mental illness. Sleepwalking is primarily a sleep disorder and not an indicator of psychological issues. However, emotional stress and poor mental health can exacerbate the condition.
In most cases, sleepwalking episodes are more related to external factors like sleep deprivation or disrupted sleep patterns than to underlying mental health conditions. If you or someone you know experiences frequent or severe sleepwalking, a sleep specialist can help determine the root cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Myth 5: Sleepwalkers Remember What They Did During an Episode
Fact: People who sleepwalk generally have little to no memory of their actions during an episode. Sleepwalking occurs when parts of the brain are awake enough to perform complex activities, but the areas responsible for conscious awareness and memory formation remain asleep. As a result, sleepwalkers are often unaware of their movements and don’t remember their behavior upon waking.
If a sleepwalker wakes up during or after an episode, they may feel disoriented and confused, but they usually won’t have a clear recollection of what happened.
Myth 6: Sleepwalking Episodes Are Harmless
Fact: While many sleepwalking episodes are relatively harmless, in some cases, they can pose serious risks. Sleepwalkers may accidentally injure themselves by falling, walking into obstacles, or attempting dangerous tasks like cooking or driving. There are also rare reports of sleepwalkers engaging in more hazardous behaviors during episodes, such as climbing out of windows or wandering into traffic.
It’s important to ensure that the sleepwalker’s environment is as safe as possible. Remove sharp objects, lock doors and windows, and take other precautions to minimize potential harm.
Myth 7: Sleepwalking Can Be “Cured”
Fact: There is no one-size-fits-all cure for sleepwalking. While some children outgrow sleepwalking as their nervous systems mature, adults may continue to experience episodes throughout their lives. That said, there are ways to manage and reduce the frequency of sleepwalking. Addressing sleep hygiene, managing stress, and treating any underlying sleep disorders can help reduce the likelihood of episodes.
Behavioral therapies and medications may also be recommended for individuals with severe or frequent sleepwalking episodes. Working with a sleep specialist can help identify the most effective strategies for managing sleepwalking.
Understanding Sleepwalking
Dispelling myths about sleepwalking can help reduce fear and misunderstanding surrounding the condition. While sleepwalking episodes can be unsettling, especially for those witnessing them, understanding the facts behind this sleep disorder can promote more effective management and ensure a safer environment for sleepwalkers. Whether in children or adults, sleepwalking is generally manageable with the right strategies and precautions.
If sleepwalking becomes frequent, severe, or dangerous, it may be time to consult with a sleep specialist to explore treatment options.
