Why does sleepwalking typically happen during deep sleep?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Sleepwalking most often occurs during deep, non-REM sleep — typically in the first third of the night. During this stage, the brain is in a state of reduced consciousness, which allows partial arousal to trigger complex behaviors like walking, talking, or performing routine tasks while a person remains asleep and unaware.

Because sleepwalking can stem from many underlying causes — including stress, sleep deprivation, medications, or other sleep disorders — understanding what's driving your episodes is the first step toward better rest and safety. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes and guide your next steps, whether that means simple lifestyle changes or a conversation with a doctor. It only takes a few minutes and could bring you real clarity.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover why deep sleep sleepwalking happens See if your sleepwalking needs care Find out what causes sleepwalking in deep sleep Explore OTC options for sleepwalking symptoms Find a doctor for sleepwalking treatment Learn home remedies for sleepwalking relief Understand if sleepwalking could signal something serious

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Explanation

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, typically occurs during deep sleep stages. During these stages, the brain is in a state of reduced consciousness.

Consciousness and Sleep: According to the study on consciousness, the brain's awareness is lower during deep sleep, which can lead to sleepwalking as the brain does not fully wake up.
Sleep Disorders in Children: In pediatric sleep studies, it is noted that sleep disorders like sleepwalking are more common during deep sleep because the brain is not as active in controlling movement and behavior.
Role of GABA: GABA, a neurotransmitter, plays a role in sleep. It helps keep the brain calm and less active, which is why sleepwalking can happen when GABA is working to keep the brain in deep sleep.

By understanding these aspects, we can see why deep sleep is a common time for sleepwalking to occur. If you or a loved one are experiencing unusual sleep patterns or concerning symptoms, you can check your symptoms with a free AI-powered tool to better understand what might be happening.

(References)

Cavanna AE, Shah S, Eddy CM, Williams A, & Rickards H. (2011). Consciousness: a neurological perspective. Behavioural neurology, 21447904.
Guilleminault C, & Anders TF. (1976). The pathophysiology of sleep disorders in pediatrics. Part II .... Advances in pediatrics, 57711.
Gottesmann C. (2002). GABA mechanisms and sleep. Neuroscience, 11983310.

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