Sleepwalking Association

We’re here to help you understand sleepwalking, manage its effects, and spread awareness. Explore expert-backed guidance and practical tools for individuals and families.

 

Awareness

We educate the public on the risks and realities of sleepwalking, helping to reduce stigma and encourage early support.

Support

Our resources and community help individuals and families manage sleepwalking safely and confidently.

Community

We connect those affected by sleepwalking, offering a safe space to share experiences and build mutual understanding.

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Years
of Experience

DID YOU KNOW

Sleepwalking in numbers

Sleepwalking affects both children and adults, often running in families. Linked to mental health and long-term persistence, it’s more common than many realize and deserves better awareness and support.

Eyes Open, Mind Asleep

Sleepwalkers often navigate familiar spaces without being aware.

Deep Sleep Trigger

Most episodes begin during the deepest stage of sleep.

Episodes Vary in Length

Sleepwalking can last a few seconds—or up to 30 minutes.

Waking Is Safe

It’s okay to wake a sleepwalker—they may just be a bit disoriented.

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Sleepwalking more common in kids

Children vs Adults 

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Kids sleepwalk when both parents do

Family Connection

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Higher odds in people with depression

Experienced Doctor

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Adults report 5+ years of episodes

Chronic Cases 

Possible Causes

What Might Trigger Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking can stem from various medical and psychological factors. Understanding these causes helps identify risk and guide better treatment or management strategies.

Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Interrupted breathing during sleep can lead to fragmented rest, increasing the risk of sleepwalking episodes.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Discomfort and leg movements at night may disturb sleep cycles, potentially triggering sleepwalking behavior.

Mental Health Conditions

Anxiety, PTSD, and stress can disrupt sleep and are linked to an increased chance of sleepwalking.

Medications

Certain drugs, especially sedatives or sleep aids, may alter brain activity and prompt sleepwalking.

Substance Use

Alcohol or recreational drugs can disturb sleep architecture and increase the likelihood of sleepwalking.

Lack of Sleep

Chronic sleep deprivation can intensify deep sleep stages, during which sleepwalking is more likely to occur.

Global Organisations Supporting Sleepwalking Awareness

The following organisations are actively involved in raising awareness, research, and advocacy for sleepwalking and other sleep disorders around the world. We are sharing these resources to highlight the global efforts supporting individuals affected by sleep-related conditions.

EXPERTS’ POINT OF VIEW

What Experts Say About Sleepwalking

Experts from various fields share their insights on sleepwalking, its causes, risks, and effective treatments, helping to raise awareness and improve understanding of this complex condition.

"Generally sleepwalking is pretty harmless, but it can occasionally result in injury to the sleepwalker or possibly those close to them, and for some people, it can be a big problem.”

Clinical Psychologist & Sleep Researcher

"20% of children and 2-3% of adults have some form of abnormal night-time behaviour although many people do not go to their GP about this. Often simple advice and time is all that is needed."

Consultant Neurologist & Sleep Specialist

“Sleepwalking and sleep talking are often regarded as punch lines pulled straight from a sitcom... But these behaviors are no joke.”

Sleep Medicine Specialist, Mass Eye and Ear

“Sleep doesn’t come naturally to everyone and that’s okay. What matters most is seeing the signs and doing something about it ASAP.”

Clinical Psychologist & Sleep Specialist

Preventing Sleep Walking Through Lifestyle and Environment

Preventing Sleep Walking Through Lifestyle and Environment

Each recommendation is grounded in evidence, ensuring you have reliable guidance to reduce the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes.

Sleep Walking During Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks

Sleep Walking During Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks

Although research specifically addressing sleepwalking in pregnancy remains limited, understanding the potential risks is essential to ensure the safety of both…

Sleep Walking in Shift Workers and Travelers: Coping with Disruption

Sleep Walking in Shift Workers and Travelers: Coping with Disruption

This guide delves deep into how irregular sleep patterns influence nocturnal ambulation and offers evidence-based approaches to reduce incidence while promoting…