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Sleepwalking and Night Terrors

Sleepwalking and night terrors are types of parasomnias, which are unusual behaviours that occur during sleep.  While these conditions are more common in children, most naturally grow out of them by the time they reach their teenage years. Adults can also experience these sleep disturbances, which can be alarming or disruptive, but they’re usually not dangerous and can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments and good sleep habits.

What Are Sleepwalking and Night Terrors?

Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)

Sleepwalking occurs during deep non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, usually in the first part of the night. During an episode, a person may sit up, walk around, or carry out complex actions such as moving objects or opening doors, all while remaining unaware of their behaviour. Episodes can last anywhere from a few seconds to half an hour, and most people have little to no memory of the event afterwards. Sleepwalking is more common in children but can also occur in adults.

Night Terrors (Sleep Terrors)

Night terrors are sudden episodes of intense fear that happen during deep NREM sleep. During an episode, a person may sit up abruptly, scream, breathe rapidly, or thrash around. Unlike nightmares, individuals usually remain asleep throughout the episode and rarely recall it afterwards. These episodes tend to be brief but can be dramatic, and while they are most often observed in children, adults can also experience them.

Common Symptoms

Common Symptoms

Sleepwalking and night terrors can look quite different from person to person, but they often follow recognisable patterns. These are some of the most common signs seen in people who experience sleepwalking or night terrors:

Sleepwalking

• Walking or performing activities while asleep
• Eyes may be open with a blank or glassy stare
• Minimal responsiveness to external stimuli
• Episodes last from a few seconds to 30 minutes
• Little to no recollection of the episode

Night Terrors

• Sudden awakening with intense fear or agitation
• Rapid heart rate or breathing
• Screaming, flailing, or thrashing
• Confusion and disorientation during the episode
• No memory of the episode upon waking

What Causes Sleepwalking and Night Terrors?

Sleepwalking and night terrors are considered disorders of arousal. They occur when a person transitions partially between sleep stages and the brain is neither fully awake nor fully asleep.

While they are more common in children, adults can also experience these episodes. Factors associated with a higher likelihood of sleepwalking or night terrors include:

  • Family history of parasomnias, suggesting a genetic component
  • Irregular sleep patterns or insufficient sleep
  • Occasional stressful periods that can affect sleep quality

Certain substances, including alcohol, sedative medications, or recreational drugs, may also increase the likelihood of episodes by affecting deep sleep

How Sleepwalking and Night Terrors Are Treated

For many adults, sleepwalking and night terrors occur only occasionally and do not require medical treatment. When treatment is necessary, the primary focus is on ensuring safety, enhancing overall sleep quality, and reducing the frequency of episodes. Approaches may include:

  • Professional guidance – A healthcare professional or sleep specialist can evaluate your sleep patterns, rule out other sleep disorders, and recommend further steps if necessary.
  • Sleep tracking – Keeping a record of bedtimes, wake times, and any unusual sleep events can highlight patterns and show whether changes are helping.
  • Structured sleep strategies – Following a consistent bedtime routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, sticking to regular sleep schedules, managing stress, and reviewing sleep patterns to make small adjustments all support better sleep.
  • Safety measures – Removing obstacles, securing doors and windows, and keeping the sleep environment hazard-free can help prevent injury during episodes.
  • Medical treatment (when appropriate) – In more persistent or disruptive cases, a sleep specialist may recommend therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, or short-term use of medication to help reduce episodes.

What to Do Next If You Suspect Sleepwalking or Night Terrors

If you experience sleepwalking or night terrors, consult a healthcare professional or sleep specialist first. Alongside professional evaluation, these practical steps can help manage episodes safely:
  • Track your sleep – Use a sleep tracker to monitor sleep patterns and note any episodes to discuss with your Doctor.
  • Apply a structured sleep approach – Download our 5-Step Sleep Coach Method to explore lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep hygiene, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress.
  • Prioritise adequate sleep – Ensure you are getting sufficient rest each night.
  • Ensure safety at night – Keep your bedroom and surrounding area free of hazards.
With the proper guidance and consistent practices, most adults can reduce the impact of sleepwalking and night terrors, thereby supporting healthier sleep.(1)

References

  1. Mayo Clinic. Sleepwalking: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleepwalking/symptoms-causes/syc-20353506
  2. Mayo Clinic. Sleep terrors: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-terrors/symptoms-causes/syc-20353524
  3. Medical News Today. Night terrors: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/301893
  4. StatPearls. Night terrors. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493222/
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