Sleepwalking: Why Does It Happen and What Should You Do?

Getting out of bed in the middle of the night, walking around the house, opening doors or even talking… all while fast asleep! Sleepwalking can seem mysterious, and even a little worrying when you witness it for the first time.

Yet it’s a relatively common phenomenon, especially among children. So why do some people walk in their sleep? Is it dangerous? And most importantly, how should you react without frightening them?

What Is Sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking is a type of sleep disorder known as a parasomnia. It usually occurs during deep sleep, most often in the first part of the night.

During an episode, the person may appear to be partially awake. They might sit up, walk around, talk or carry out familiar actions. Their eyes may even be open, but they aren’t truly aware of what they’re doing.

And the most surprising part? When they wake up, they usually have no memory of their nighttime adventure!

Contrary to what you might think, sleepwalkers aren’t simply acting out their dreams. Their brain is in a state somewhere between deep sleep and wakefulness.

At What Age Does Sleepwalking Occur?

Sleepwalking is most common in children, particularly between the ages of 4 and 8, although it can occur at other ages too.

The good news is that most children who sleepwalk experience fewer episodes as they grow older, and many naturally stop sleepwalking by adolescence.

Adults can also experience sleepwalking, but it’s less common in adulthood.

What Causes Sleepwalking?

The exact causes of sleepwalking aren’t always clear. However, several factors may trigger episodes or make them more frequent:

Sleepwalking isn’t necessarily a sign of a psychological problem or poor sleep quality.

What Should You Do If Someone Is Sleepwalking?

Imagine getting up for a glass of water and finding your child standing in the hallway, eyes open but unable to answer your questions.

What should you do?

The first thing is to stay calm. Avoid shouting, shaking the person or speaking to them abruptly.

If possible, gently guide them back to bed using a calm voice and simple movements.

Contrary to a popular myth, waking a sleepwalker isn’t dangerous in itself. However, waking them suddenly can cause confusion, fear or agitation. If you need to wake them to prevent an accident, do so gently.

Can You Prevent Sleepwalking?

There’s no guaranteed way to stop sleepwalking completely, but healthy sleep habits may help reduce some of its triggers.

Try to maintain regular bedtimes, make sure your child gets enough sleep and encourage calm activities before bed.

A comfortable bedroom, a pleasant sleeping temperature and familiar bedtime routines can also help create a relaxing environment for rest. Some children also benefit from breathing exercises for a calmer bedtime.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Occasional sleepwalking in children is generally harmless.

However, it’s worth seeking medical advice if episodes become very frequent, pose a risk of injury, significantly disrupt sleep or are accompanied by excessive daytime tiredness.

Loud snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep should also be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Sleepwalking that begins for the first time in adulthood should also be assessed by a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleepwalking

Is sleepwalking dangerous?

Sleepwalking itself is generally harmless, especially in children, but the main risk is injury during an episode. Secure windows and staircases, remove sharp objects and avoid bunk beds for children who sleepwalk.

Should you wake a sleepwalker?

Waking a sleepwalker isn’t dangerous in itself, but waking them suddenly can cause confusion, fear or agitation. Ideally, gently guide them back to bed. If you need to wake them to prevent an accident, do so gently.

At what age is sleepwalking most common?

Sleepwalking is most common in children aged 4 to 8. Most children experience fewer episodes as they grow older, and many stop sleepwalking by adolescence.

Do sleepwalkers remember their episodes?

Usually not. When they wake up, sleepwalkers generally have no memory of what they did during the night.

When should you see a doctor about sleepwalking?

Seek medical advice if episodes become very frequent, pose a risk of injury, significantly disrupt sleep or come with excessive daytime tiredness, loud snoring or pauses in breathing. Sleepwalking that begins in adulthood should also be assessed.

In Summary: Stay Calm and Focus on Safety

Sleepwalking can be surprising to witness, but in most cases, especially among children, it’s a temporary phenomenon.

The most important things are to keep the sleeping environment safe, maintain healthy sleep habits and respond with patience and understanding.

And if you happen to meet a little sleepwalker in the hallway tonight, there’s no need to ask where they’re going. Just gently guide them back to bed so they can carry on enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep!

Would you like to receive exclusive offers? Stay connected with Zizzz!

Why not stay in touch? Sign up for our newsletter to enjoy special offers, exclusive discounts, and the latest updates on our eco-friendly baby and children’s products, duvets, pillows, and premium-quality bed linen.

Our Mission at Zizzz

Enhancing quality of life and well-being through better sleep

At Zizzz, our mission is to improve quality of life by promoting good sleep as an essential component of overall well-being.

We offer products and resources that promote restorative and revitalizing sleep, recognizing it as one of the three pillars of a healthy lifestyle, alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

By prioritizing quality sleep, we empower individuals to lead healthier and happier lives.

Preserving our environment and helping to build a better future

We achieve this goal by using only natural materials such as wool, traceable down, and organic cotton in our products, ensuring a luxurious and eco-friendly sleep environment.

Committed to sustainability and ethical practices, we produce locally, supporting local economies and reducing our carbon footprint.

Choosing Zizzz means investing in your own well-being while contributing to a more sustainable future for all.