Sleepwalking

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Sleepwalking

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A non-REM sleep arousal disorder involving repeated episodes of rising from bed and walking about during sleep, with limited awareness or memory of the event.

Overview

Sleepwalking, a type of non-REM sleep arousal disorder, involves repeated episodes of rising from bed and walking about during sleep, typically during the first third of the night, with limited responsiveness and little or no memory of the episode.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include walking, performing routine behaviors, or occasionally leaving the home while still asleep, with a blank, staring face and difficulty being awakened. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Sleepwalking is more common in children and can be triggered or worsened by sleep deprivation, fever, stress, or certain medications; genetic factors also play a role.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Ensuring adequate sleep and reducing known triggers are the primary management strategies.

Living With Sleepwalking

Securing the sleep environment, such as locking doors and removing hazards, is important to prevent injury during episodes.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Outlook

Sleepwalking is common in childhood and often resolves with age; persistent or injurious sleepwalking in adults may warrant further evaluation.

Related Conditions

Sleep Terrors

A non-REM sleep arousal disorder involving abrupt episodes of terror during sleep, often with a scream, intense fear, and no memory of the episode.

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

A sleep disorder involving repeated episodes of vocalization or complex motor behavior arising during REM sleep, often enacting dreams.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.