Sleepwalking and Trauma: Healing and Finding Control

Blog Post: Sleepwalking and Trauma: Healing and Finding Control

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder that affects approximately 4% of adults and 17% of children. It is characterized by complex movements and behaviors during sleep, such as sitting up, walking, or even driving without any conscious awareness. While the exact cause of sleepwalking is still unknown, research suggests that it may be linked to trauma and emotional distress. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between sleepwalking and trauma, and discuss ways to heal and find control over this disorder.

The Link Between Sleepwalking and Trauma:

Trauma refers to any distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. It can be a single event, such as a car accident or a natural disaster, or it can be ongoing, such as physical or emotional abuse. Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, and it can manifest in various ways, including sleep disturbances like sleepwalking.

Studies have shown that people who have experienced trauma are more likely to suffer from sleepwalking. This is because trauma can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and cause disruptions in the brain’s sleep-wake cycle. Trauma can also lead to heightened arousal and increased levels of stress hormones, which can trigger sleepwalking episodes.

Moreover, trauma can cause individuals to suppress their emotions and memories, which can manifest during sleepwalking as the brain tries to process and make sense of these suppressed emotions. This can result in sleepwalking behaviors that are linked to the traumatic event, such as running away or fighting an imaginary threat.

Healing from Trauma:

The first step in healing from trauma is to acknowledge and accept that it has occurred. This can be a difficult and painful process, but it is crucial for long-term healing. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial in this process, as they can provide a safe space to explore and process the traumatic event.

Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) have been shown to be effective in treating trauma and its related symptoms, including sleepwalking. CBT helps individuals to identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors, while EMDR focuses on processing and releasing traumatic memories.

Sleepwalking and Trauma: Healing and Finding Control

In addition to therapy, self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, and journaling can also aid in the healing process. These activities can help individuals to manage stress and anxiety, which are often heightened after experiencing trauma.

Finding Control Over Sleepwalking:

While there is no specific cure for sleepwalking, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. These include creating a safe sleep environment, avoiding stress and anxiety triggers, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.

Creating a safe sleep environment involves removing any potential hazards from the bedroom, such as sharp objects or furniture that can be tripped over. It is also recommended to lock doors and windows to prevent sleepwalking individuals from leaving the house.

Stress and anxiety can trigger sleepwalking, so it is essential to find ways to manage and reduce these triggers. This can include practicing relaxation techniques before bed, such as deep breathing or listening to calming music. It is also crucial to address and process any underlying emotional distress or trauma that may be contributing to sleepwalking.

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can also help in managing sleepwalking. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and reduce the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes.

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to help with sleepwalking. These medications can help improve the quality of sleep and reduce the frequency of episodes. However, it is essential to consult with a medical professional before taking any medication.

Summary:

Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder that can be triggered by trauma and emotional distress. Trauma can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and lead to heightened arousal and stress, which can result in sleepwalking episodes. Healing from trauma involves acknowledging and accepting its occurrence and seeking professional help. Therapies such as CBT and EMDR can be effective in treating trauma and its related symptoms. In addition, self-care practices such as exercise and meditation can aid in the healing process. To find control over sleepwalking, it is important to create a safe sleep environment, manage stress and anxiety triggers, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.