How to Cope With Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking ("somnambulism" in medical terms) can be both unsettling and frightening. It can even be dangerous. A sleepwalker may leave the house and endanger his own life or the lives of others. Triggers such as stress, worry and over-tiredness need to be controlled to cope with sleepwalking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Know that experts differ on their advice about whether or not to wake a sleepwalker. Some say to gently speak to sleepwalkers and guide them back to bed. Other experts say to make sure they don't hurt themselves or others, but don't wake them. For safety, hide the car keys, put keyed dead bolts on the doors and avoid bunk beds for the sleepwalking child in order to cope safely.
2. Exercise regularly in order to sleep more soundly. Exercise helps in many ways. The body will be more relaxed. The mind will also relax more as exercise helps to relieve stress. Experts say that anxiety is often a trigger for sleepwalking. Excess activity in the brain as you lie in bed and think about your problems prevents sound sleep. To cope with sleepwalking, a good night's rest can often stave off a sleepwalking episode.
3. Plan your meals so that you don't go to bed on a full stomach. It's best to have nothing to eat the last 3 hours before you turn in. Digestion is controlled by the brain, our central nervous system and the "control tower" for our body. If digestion is going on, a sleepwalker won't go into deep sleep and it can trigger an episode.
4. Cope with sleepwalking by maintaining a healthy sleep environment. Make the bedroom a relaxing, comforting and cozy place to sleep. Listen to soothing music. Consider a form of relaxation such as meditation or yoga in order to help minimize negative thinking.

Tips & Warnings

• Take extra care for a sleepwalking child when he or she sleeps away from home. Notify the adults in charge so they can prepare and put safety measures in place.