Sleepwalking is a relatively common phenomenon.
According to theNational Sleep Foundation, up to 40% of children sleepwalk.
They might eventalk, though their answers might not make much sense.
If you see a loved one sleepwalking, should you wake them up?
It can be a bad idea though not for the reasons you might think.
Instead, gently guide the sleepwalker back to bed by turning them in the right direction.
Chances are, in the morning, they’ll have no memory of their nighttime rambling.
Sometimes, though, waking a sleepwalker can’t be avoided.
Sleepwalking can be dangerous, especially if the sleepwalker wanders outside.
This will prevent the confused sleepwalker from hurting you.
Once they wake up, gently explain that they’ve been sleepwalking and get them back to bed.
TheNational Sleep Foundationrecommends limitingdaytime napsto 30 minutes, exercising, and establishing a regular bedtime routine.
Your doctor might suggest other treatments, including hypnosis and medication (via Mayo Clinic.)
Avoiding alcohol can also prevent the behavior (via NHS.)
Sleeping on the ground floor can prevent sleepwalkers from heading for the stairs.
Locking windows and bedroom doors keeps the sleepwalker from leaving and hurting themselves.
ensure cords and other tripping hazards near the bed are removed.
