Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, happens when someone performs complex behaviors during deep non-REM sleep. They may look awake, but awareness and memory are limited. It is common in children and can persist or return in stressed, sleep-deprived adults.
What Triggers Sleepwalking
- Sleep deprivation or irregular schedules
- Fever, illness, and high stress
- Alcohol and sedating medications
- Family history and genetic predisposition
- Sleep disorders that fragment deep sleep, especially apnea
Safety First
Remove tripping hazards, lock exterior doors and windows, and avoid bunk beds for sleepwalkers. If episodes are frequent, consider door alarms. Guide the person back to bed gently rather than shouting or shaking them awake, which can cause confusion.
Treatment Options
Treating triggers often helps more than medication. Prioritize adequate sleep, consistent timing, and evaluation for apnea if snoring or daytime sleepiness is present. A sleep specialist may recommend scheduled awakening for predictable patterns or medication in high-risk cases.
If sleep is short or irregular, use our sleep cycle calculator to rebuild a stable schedule.