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Sleepwalking (somnambulism)

8-minute read

Key facts

  • Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder where you walk or do activities while asleep.
  • It usually isn't harmful but can sometimes lead to injuries or embarrassment.
  • Sleepwalking is more common in children and often goes away on its own.
  • Managing triggers, such as stress and poor sleep can help reduce episodes.
  • Most people don't need treatment, but safety measures can help prevent injuries.

What is sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking (somnambulism) is a type of sleep disorder. It means that you get up and move around while you are asleep. It happens during deep sleep.

During sleepwalking, you may sit up, walk around or do simple activities and then go back to bed. You will do these things without knowing about it. You usually can't remember what you have done.

Sleepwalking can sometimes be risky because you don't know where you are or what you're doing. It's important to keep the sleep area safe to avoid injuries.

Children are more likely to sleepwalk than adults. If sleepwalking happens a lot or causes problems, talk to your doctor for advice or treatment.

What happens when I sleepwalk?

Sleepwalking happens during deep sleep, usually in the first part of the night. When you sleepwalk, you are partly awake but still asleep.

During sleepwalking:

Sleepwalkers may not feel pain, so they might not notice cuts or bruises until the morning. Some people may feel scared or confused, especially if they wake up suddenly.

In rare situations, sleepwalkers might bump into someone or act out their dreams. This does not happen on purpose. It's safest for family members to gently guide them back to bed without waking them.

What causes sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking is usually harmless and goes away on its own, especially in children. However, chronic sleepwalking can sometimes be linked to other problems. For example, sleep disorders, stress or behavioural issues.

You are more likely to sleepwalk if you:

Many children who sleepwalk have night terrors as well.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see a doctor if:

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How is sleepwalking diagnosed?

Your doctor may diagnose sleepwalking by asking about your medical history and sleep habits. They will talk to you or your family to understand what happens during sleepwalking episodes.

Most of the time, no special tests are needed because sleepwalking is usually harmless. If the episodes seem unusual, frequent or dangerous, they might do tests. This is to rule out other conditions, such as epilepsy.

These tests may include:

Sleepwalking can sometimes run in families, so your doctor may ask about family health history. They may also do a physical examination to rule out other problems.

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How is sleepwalking treated?

Most children grow out of sleepwalking and many people don't need treatment.

Treatment may help if sleepwalking:

If sleepwalking leads to safety concerns or distress, 2 simple and safe treatments are often recommended:

Managing triggers

Certain things can make sleepwalking worse, such as stress, poor sleep or certain medicines. Your doctor may suggest:

If sleepwalking is caused by other sleep problems, such as sleep apnoea, treating those conditions may help.

Sometimes, medicines may be prescribed as short-term treatment option if other treatment options don't help.

Living with sleepwalking

Most people who sleepwalk live normal lives without treatment. Manage your triggers, such as stress or poor sleep and make sure your home is safe. Lock your windows and clear any obstacles.

If sleepwalking leads to distress or injuries, ask your doctor for advice.

What to do when your child is sleepwalking?

If your child is a sleepwalker, the best thing to do is to calmly comfort them and return them to bed.

There are ways you can lower their risk of injury from sleepwalking.

You should gently and calmly direct your sleepwalking child back to bed.

Don't try to wake them up. This could startle and distress them.

Don't lock anyone in their room as this could be a fire safety risk.

Read more about sleep tips for children.

What are the risks of sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking usually isn’t a big problem, but it can sometimes lead to injuries or embarrassment. For example, when you go outside without realising it.

Potential risks during sleepwalking may include:

Can sleepwalking be prevented?

While sleepwalking cannot always be completely prevented, managing triggers can help reduce episodes.

Avoid alcohol or drugs, as they can impact quality of sleep.

Keep the sleep area safe, such as locking windows and moving sharp objects. This can help avoid accidents.

Resources and support

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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