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Published on: 11/20/2025
When should sleepwalking be considered a medical emergency?
Sleepwalking becomes a medical emergency if the person is at risk of harming themselves or others, or if they exhibit unusual behaviors like leaving the house. Seek help if these situations occur.
Worried about sleepwalking emergencies?
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Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, is generally not dangerous. However, it can become a medical emergency in certain situations. If the person who is sleepwalking is in danger of hurting themselves, such as by falling down stairs or walking into traffic, immediate action is needed. Additionally, if the person shows unusual behaviors like trying to leave the house or engaging in aggressive actions, it is important to seek help.
When to Seek Help:
- Safety Risks: If the sleepwalker is in a situation where they might get hurt.
- Unusual Behaviors: If they try to leave the house or act aggressively.
In these cases, contacting emergency services or a healthcare professional is advised. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, visit 988lifeline.org for support.
(References)
- Mainieri G, Loddo G, Provini F, Nobili L, Manconi M, & Castelnovo A. (2023). Diagnosis and Management of NREM Sleep Parasomnias .... Diagnostics, 10093221.
- Lopez R, Lefevre L, Barateau L, Micoulaud-Franchi JA, Dauvilliers Y, & Schenck CH. (2022). A series of 8 cases of sleep-related psychogenic .... Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine : JCSM : Official Publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 8804993.
- Sousa-Santos PE, & Peres MF. (2025). Practical issues in the management of sleep, anxiety, and .... Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria, 12221693.
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