As a sleep expert, I can tell you that waking up a sleepwalker is a common concern. Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, is a behavior disorder that occurs during deep sleep. It's important to approach this situation with care.
Firstly, sleepwalkers are not conscious of their actions, and waking them up abruptly can cause
confusion and
disorientation. This can lead to
panic or
aggressive behavior, as the individual might not understand where they are or why they were being touched.
Secondly, sleepwalkers are generally not aware of their surroundings, which means they could be at risk of
injury if they are startled and try to move suddenly. It's safer to gently guide them back to bed without waking them up.
If you must wake a sleepwalker due to an immediate danger, it's recommended to do so in a calm and gentle manner. Use a soft voice and avoid touching them abruptly.
In summary, you should not wake a sleepwalker because it can lead to confusion, disorientation, panic, and potential injury. Instead, gently guide them back to bed.
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