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Published on: 11/19/2025

Is sleepwalking related to nightmares or night terrors?

Sleepwalking is related to night terrors but not directly to nightmares, as they all occur during different stages of sleep.

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Explanation

Sleepwalking and night terrors are both sleep disorders that happen during deep sleep, which is different from when nightmares occur. Nightmares usually happen during REM sleep, a lighter sleep stage.

Here are some key points:

  1. Sleepwalking: This happens during deep sleep and involves walking or doing other activities while still asleep.
  2. Night Terrors: These also occur during deep sleep and involve sudden fear, screaming, or thrashing.
  3. Nightmares: These occur during REM sleep, where dreams happen, and can cause you to wake up scared.

While sleepwalking and night terrors might seem similar because they occur in deep sleep, they are different from nightmares, which happen in a different sleep stage. If you have concerns about sleep issues, you can visit 988lifeline.org for support.

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