Do you really know?

How do I know if I sleepwalk?

Dec 12, 2024

Discover the fascinating world of sleepwalking, a condition that strikes during deep sleep. Did you know one in five children sleepwalk at least once? While it’s less common in adults, about 4% are affected. The podcast explores myths, the unpredictability of sleepwalking actions, and the safety precautions to consider. Legal responsibilities while sleepwalking are also discussed, raising questions about accountability. Tune in for a quick dive into this mysterious sleep disorder!

04:23

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Quick takeaways

Sleepwalking primarily occurs in the deep sleep phase, affecting both children and adults, with behaviors varying from simple eye-rubbing to full-fledged walking.

Detection of sleepwalking often relies on reports from family or partners, since individuals usually wake up with no memory of their actions.

Deep dives

Understanding Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking occurs during the deep sleep phase and can manifest in various behaviors beyond the stereotypical image of a person with their arms outstretched. Episodes may last from 5 to 30 minutes, and individuals often have no memory of their actions upon waking. It is notably more prevalent in children, with studies indicating that 1 in 5 children may experience it at least once, whereas about 4% of adults may be affected. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as some individuals may inherit a tendency to sleepwalk.

Understanding Sleepwalking: Myths, Facts, and Responsibility

4min

Sleepwalking is a disorder that comes on during the deep sleep phase, from one to three hours after falling asleep. Episodes can last from 5 to 30 minutes and despite the condition’s name, they don’t always involve walking. Often people just rub their eyes, sit up on their bed or talk in their sleep.

According to the NHS, one in five children will sleepwalk at least once in their life. Meanwhile, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine says that prevalence in adults is up to 4%. So it’s clearly more common in kids than in adults, and most kids tend to grow out of it when they hit their teens. Bear in mind a tendency to sleepwalk can be inherited.

Is it a common disorder? How on earth am I as an adult going to realise if I sleepwalk? How responsible are we for our actions when sleepwalking? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.

First broadcast: 5/2/2023

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