Sleepwalking: what can you do about it?c

Sleepwalking, also called somnambulism, is usually harmless and occurs mostly in children. It often disappears on its own as they get older, but in some cases treatment may be necessary, especially if sleepwalking is frequent and problematic. Below is information on what you can do yourself and possible treatments for sleepwalking.

Self-help measures:

• Regular sleep: A consistent sleep rhythm and fixed bedtimes can help reduce sleepwalking, especially during periods of stress.

• Relaxation exercises: For older children and adults who suffer from sleepwalking, relaxation exercises can help improve overall sleep quality and reduce tension, which in turn can reduce sleepwalking.

Treatments:

• Psychological counseling: Short-term counseling by a psychologist may be helpful for people who are greatly troubled by sleepwalking, especially if the problem is related to stress or anxiety.

• Psychiatric examination: If there are suspicions of an underlying anxiety or personality disorder contributing to sleepwalking, a psychiatric examination may be advised.

• Neurological examination: With evidence of an epileptic disorder or other sleep disorder, a neurological examination may be necessary to make the correct diagnosis.

• Medications: In cases where self-help measures and therapies are not effective, drug treatment may be considered, although the evidence for their effectiveness is limited. Examples include sedatives such as benzodiazepines (clonazepam, nitrazepam) that suppress the deep sleep stages, and sometimes antidepressants that make sleep less deep, which can reduce sleepwalking.

• Psychotherapy: Relaxation therapy, stress reduction techniques and behavioral therapy may be effective in some people to reduce sleepwalking.

• Hypnosis: There are some studies that suggest hypnosis may have a positive effect in certain sleepwalkers, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Sleepwalking can vary in severity and frequency. For most people, especially children, it disappears on its own. However, if it occurs regularly and is problematic, it may be helpful to consult with a physician or sleep specialist to explore appropriate treatment options.