Sleepwalking, also referred to as somnambulism, is a fairly common problem among children. It involves sitting, walking, or performing other routine behaviors while asleep. Although the individual who sleepwalks typically has his or her eyes open and avoids bumping into objects, there is no indication of awareness. Sleepwalking episodes, which last from 5 to 30 min, typically occur 2 hours after the onset of sleep (i.e., during slow-wave, non-REM sleep). It is estimated to occur in 10-30% of children, most often between the ages of 4 and 8 (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000). Sleepwalking typically occurs over several years, but more often than not it remits spontaneously by the age of 15.
A disorder characterized by periods of sitting up, moving about, or engaging in other complex activities (such as dressing or eating) while still asleep. Injury from a fall, walking through a window, wandering outside, or bumping into obstacles is a serious risk of sleepwalking. This risk is heightened if sleepwalking includes frantic actions such as running. Contrary to popular belief, a sleepwalker may be awakened without risk.
Autonomic actions performed during sleep. This condition occurs mostly in children, each episode lasting less than 10 min. The eyes are open and the facial expression is blank. The patient appears to awaken, sits on the edge of the bed, and may walk or talk. Activity may cause trauma to the patient and others. The principal aim is to prevent injury by removing objects that could be dangerous, locking doors and windows, and preventing the person from falling down stairs. Night terrors may accompany sleepwalking. There is little or no recollection of the event the next day. Children usually outgrow this condition.
Moving about while being asleep, a condition also recognized as somnambulism, takes place during Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep or upon awakening from this sleep phase. Importantly, it’s distinct from the physical enactment of dreams. Sleepwalking is a phenomenon that some individuals engage in on a regular basis.
Typically, a sleepwalker peacefully rises from bed, roams around without a clear purpose for a short span, and eventually returns to bed. On occasion, sleepwalking is accompanied by night terrors, during which the individual might display signs of anxiety or vocalize distress. Awakening a sleepwalker can be challenging and is not essential; instead, gently guiding them back to bed is the recommended approach.
Among children, sleepwalking is generally considered a non-alarming occurrence that often diminishes as they grow older. In adults, it could be linked to anxiety or the utilization of sleep-inducing medications, particularly among the elderly population.