Is it true you should never wake a sleepwalker? The truth, plus 4 common sleepwalking myths debunked 😴🚶

Last month, my friend Lila woke up at 2 a.m. to find her 8-year-old son, Jake, standing in the kitchen holding a jar of pickles, eyes half-closed, muttering about ‘space cucumbers.’ She froze—she’d always heard you should never wake a sleepwalker. But what was she supposed to do? Let him wander? This is a common dilemma, rooted in a myth passed around for decades.

The Big Myth: Should You Never Wake a Sleepwalker?

The short answer is no—you don’t have to let them wander. Waking a sleepwalker won’t cause a heart attack or insanity (that’s another myth!). But it should be done gently. Sleepwalkers are in deep non-REM sleep, so sudden loud noises or rough shaking can confuse or scare them. Instead, guide them back to bed with soft voices and slow movements.

4 Common Sleepwalking Myths Debunked

Let’s break down four persistent myths and their truths:

What Causes Sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking (somnambulism) occurs in stage 3 of non-REM sleep, the deepest sleep phase. It’s more common in kids because their deep sleep stages are longer. Triggers include sleep deprivation, stress, fever, certain medications, or sleep disorders like apnea (for adults).

A Classic Take on Sleep

“Sleep that knits up the raveled sleeve of care.” — William Shakespeare, Macbeth

Shakespeare knew sleep’s healing power, but sleepwalking disrupts that. It’s a sign something’s off in the sleep cycle—whether stress or an underlying disorder.

FAQ: What Should I Do If I See Someone Sleepwalking?

Q: I found my partner sleepwalking last night—what’s the best way to help?

A: Stay calm. Guide them back to bed with soft words and gentle touches. If they resist, don’t force them—follow to ensure they don’t hurt themselves (like falling down stairs). If sleepwalking is frequent, suggest a doctor visit to rule out issues like sleep apnea.

Sleepwalking affects about 15% of kids and 4% of adults. Separating myth from fact helps you handle it safely. Next time you see someone sleepwalking, you’ll know exactly what to do.