Sleepwalking is one of the most commonly discussed sleep disorders. Almost everyone has a story about a sleepwalker (and they're usually hilarious).
For example, maybe your sister used to walk around in the middle of the night and eat snacks, or maybe you were once woken up by a sleepwalking friend at a slumber party.
Usually, people think sleepwalking is just a funny quirk some people have, but it can actually be a pretty scary disorder.
Not only is it dangerous for the sleeping person, it can also be dangerous for other people in the house.
Unfortunately, waking a sleepwalker can be very problematic, especially if you do it incorrectly.
Keeping yourself safe when you're waking up a sleepwalking friend or family member is absolutely essential, so make sure you know the proper steps to take.
Read below to find out more about the correct way to wake up a sleepwalker.
Photos: Laura Caseley for LittleThings; Pexels / Free-Photos
What Is Sleepwalking?
According to WebMD, sleepwalking is:
A sleep disorder that usually happens when a person is in the deep-sleep phase, which should be the most restful, recuperative phase. Instead, sleepwalkers begin to do physical activities typical of wakefulness, such as talking, sitting up and looking around the room, getting out of bed and roaming the house, or even picking up car keys and going for a drive–all while remaining in deep sleep.
Is Waking A Sleepwalker Dangerous?
The National Sleep Foundation explains that it can be dangerous and difficult to wake up someone who is sleepwalking. Sleepwalkers can actually become violent or aggressive if you try to wake them.
Sometimes, though, it's necessary to do so — like if they're going to do something that could harm themselves or others.
How To Wake A Sleepwalker The Right Way
Always try to wake a sleepwalker before they do anything harmful or dangerous.
If a sleepwalker needs to be woken up, there are certain steps you should follow.
Step 1: Try To Stop Them Without Waking Them
If at all possible, try not to wake the sleepwalker.
Try to gently turn the person back around and send them back to bed without waking them up.
The National Sleep Foundation says that the best way to do this is to not use too much physical contact, but turn the person in the direction of their bed and stay with them until they get back to the safety of their bed.
Step 2: Stay With Them
If you find that it's not possible to get the person to go back to bed, stay with them as they wander around the house.
They may eventually go back to bed on their own, but if not, you'll be there to make sure they don't put themselves or others in danger.
Step 3: Don't Touch Them Too Much
While helping a sleepwalker, don't get too physical with them.
If you touch them too much, it might startle the sleepwalker, which can make them become aggressive.
Step 4: If You Have To Wake Them, Use Loud Noises
The National Sleep Foundation says that if you need to wake up a sleepwalker, you shouldn't do it by shaking them or being physical.
Instead, you should use loud noises to wake them in a more natural way. They will probably be startled, so stay at a safe distance until they are fully awake and aware.
Step 5: Explain What Happened To The Sleepwalker
When a sleepwalker wakes up, they're often scared, confused, and disoriented. They also usually have no idea that they've been sleepwalking.
Kindly explain to them that everything is OK and that they were just sleepwalking, then answer any questions they may have.
How To Prevent Sleepwalking
If you or someone you know is a sleepwalker and wants to stop, there are a few things you can do.
According to WebMD, the best things to do include creating a bedtime routine, giving yourself a power-down hour, making sure your room is safe (don't leave anything sharp around, lock doors and windows), and installing a door alarm.
When To See A Doctor
If you or someone you know can't stop sleepwalking, or is worried about the dangers of sleepwalking, call your doctor to ask for their advice.
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