Sleepwalking … more than just being asleep on your feet!

[22 December 2011 - 10h52]

Did you know that sleepwalking mainly affects young boys? This sleep disorder generally starts at around the age of 4 and disappears at puberty. But how can it be identified and dealt with?

If a child starts walking at night, with his eyes wide open but is still fast asleep … he is suffering from somnambulism (sleepwalking). Typically, sleepwalkers get up after about three hours sleeping, during the slow, deep phase of sleep.

Their face remains expressionless; they may mutter a little and they move slowly. This “excursion” may last from a few minutes to half an hour, be limited to the bedroom or, on the contrary, the sleepwalker may roam all over the house. A sleepwalker is capable of carrying out complex actions, such as peeling fruit or pouring himself a drink. However, he can be clumsy and may injure himself. So, it is important to secure the windows and doors with bolts before going to bed.

Sleepwalkers remain docile and can easily be led back to bed. However, it is important to remain alert because they may sleepwalk two or three times a night. One small point: there is no truth in the story that one should never wake a sleepwalker. It is simply inadvisable to do so, as waking up suddenly may be disturbing for the person concerned and he may become aggressive.

In 60% to 80% of cases, there will be a family history of sleepwalking. If your child is affected, it is very important to reassure him. Only subsequently, if really necessary, should you think of trying psychotherapy.

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