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While both of these videos may be humorous, Sleepwalking is actually no laughing matter. Sleepwalking is characterized by complex behavior (walking) accomplished while asleep. Occasionally nonsensical talking may occur while sleepwalking. The person’s eyes are commonly open but have a characteristic glassy “look right through you” appearance. Approximately 15% of children between 4-12 years of age will experience sleepwalking.

For children and adults, Sleepwalking is usually a sign of lack of sleep, intense emotional problems, stress, or fever. As these conditions resolve, Sleepwalking incidences disappear. The scary part enters into play when children are able to get out of bed, and unlock doors to let themselves out. There is real potential for children – and adults – to injure themselves accidentally while Sleepwalking.

People don’t only walk around in their sleep – they can perform complex actions such as driving a car while still technically catching their ZZZs. They may appear to be awake but act clumsy and not really able to answer you when spoken to. Episodes generally last anywhere from a few moments to half an hour or more.

The old saying that one should never wake a Sleepwalker is a myth. However, you should be careful not to startle them. Don’t yell or jerk them physically. Try gently taking their arm and walking them back to their bed. Talk to them in a calm voice. Run your hand up and down their arm or back. It’s okay to help them wake up – just don’t be rude about it!

When a dog “sleep-dreams”, it can be hilarious. But as you see in the below video, even that can have its consequences. Luckily, the dog in question was unhurt, and okay. I cannot say the same for myself, since I actually hurt my arm pretty badly when I did my take!

Don’t try this at home, folks!

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Sleepwalking