Am I Sleepwalking? My Nighttime Behavior

Is this considered sleepwalking?

I sleep in the living room every night, and my family wakes me up, saying that I woke up on my own and returned to my bedroom.
However, I have no recollection of this the next day.
One time, I woke up and spoke to my sister, and she said I walked around the living room twice before going back to sleep.
Could this be considered sleepwalking? If so, what are the solutions?

Tracy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/23

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry

Hello, in the realm of sleep disorders, there is a condition known as sleepwalking disorder.
The main symptoms include: 1.
Frequent episodes of getting out of bed and walking around during the first third of the sleep cycle.
2.
During sleepwalking, the individual appears expressionless with a fixed gaze, and it requires significant effort to awaken them.
3.
Typically, upon waking, the person has no recollection of the events that occurred, but they regain normal cognitive and behavioral functions within a few minutes.
4.
To diagnose sleepwalking disorder, similar to other psychological disorders, it must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, and this disturbance should not be attributable to the effects of a substance or another medical condition.
To determine if your situation meets the criteria for sleepwalking disorder, you should ask your sister to observe you based on the aforementioned standards, particularly focusing on the second and fourth criteria, as these must be met; otherwise, it may simply be a state of incomplete awakening.

Regarding treatment, if the sleepwalking occurs in children and does not cause significant distress, it is generally sufficient to ensure the patient's safety during episodes without excessive concern.
However, if the sleepwalking occurs in adults or leads to significant physical and mental exhaustion, it is advisable to seek further assistance from a psychiatrist.
A psychiatrist may assist the patient in improving their condition with medications that enhance deep sleep, relax muscles, or reduce abnormal brain discharges, depending on the potential underlying causes.

Reply Date: 2005/01/23

More Info

Based on your description, it does sound like you may be experiencing episodes of sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism. This condition is characterized by a person walking or performing other complex behaviors while still in a state of sleep, often with no memory of the event upon waking. Sleepwalking typically occurs during the deeper stages of non-REM sleep, usually within the first few hours after falling asleep.

Your experience of waking up in the living room and having no recollection of it the next day aligns with common symptoms of sleepwalking. The fact that your family members have witnessed you walking around and interacting with them while you were asleep further supports this possibility. Sleepwalking can vary in severity; some individuals may simply sit up in bed or walk around, while others may engage in more complex behaviors, such as leaving the house or even driving.

There are several potential triggers for sleepwalking, including sleep deprivation, stress, irregular sleep schedules, and certain medications. Given that you mentioned your family has to wake you up and that you have no memory of these events, it would be beneficial to consider the following steps to help manage and potentially reduce the frequency of these episodes:
1. Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and can improve the quality of your sleep.

2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure your sleeping area is conducive to rest. This includes a comfortable mattress, a dark and quiet room, and a cool temperature. Reducing noise and light can help you achieve deeper sleep.

3. Limit Stress and Anxiety: Since stress can be a significant trigger for sleepwalking, consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help alleviate stress.

4. Avoid Stimulants Before Bed: Caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Try to avoid these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime.

5. Monitor Sleep Hygiene: Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and excessive screen time before bed. Instead, engage in calming activities, such as reading or taking a warm bath, to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

6. Consult a Sleep Specialist: If your sleepwalking episodes persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study, to determine the underlying causes of your sleepwalking and recommend appropriate treatment options.

7. Safety Precautions: Since sleepwalking can pose safety risks, it’s important to take precautions. Ensure that windows and doors are securely locked, and remove any obstacles in your home that could lead to injury during an episode.

In summary, while sleepwalking can be concerning, it is often manageable with lifestyle changes and, in some cases, professional guidance. By addressing potential triggers and establishing a healthy sleep routine, you may be able to reduce the frequency of these episodes and improve your overall sleep quality. If you have further concerns or if the episodes continue, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is a prudent step.

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