Is it dangerous to wake up a sleepwalker?

Sleepwalking occurs during a deep stage of sleep, and waking a sleepwalker can lead to confusion or disorientation. According to the medical literature, while it is not inherently dangerous to wake someone who is sleepwalking, it can be startling for both the sleepwalker and the person waking them.

Handling Sleepwalkers:

1. Stay Calm: If you encounter someone sleepwalking, remain calm.
2. Guide Gently: Instead of waking them, try to gently guide them back to bed.
3. Ensure Safety: Make sure the environment is safe to prevent injury.

While waking them isn’t harmful, it’s often more effective to ensure their safety and guide them back to a restful state. If sleepwalking is frequent or leads to safety concerns, consulting a healthcare professional might be beneficial.