Anyone who has ever either suffered from sleepwalking or experienced the strange phenomenon with a loved one undoubtedly wants to know how to stop sleepwalking.
This sleeping problem does not just restrict itself to walking.
People who sleepwalk can sit, walk, talk, and even go to the bathroom during episodes.
It has to be said that children, far more than adults, tend to suffer from this problem.
This, of course, leads to a lot fear among mothers and fathers.
However, adults can and do suffer from sleepwalking episodes as well.
There are very few doctors out there which will treat the problem.
The good news is that prevention is possible.
The first thing you can do is make sure that you or your loved one is sleeping more.
More time spent sleeping at night can help a lot.
This is because sleepwalking tends to occur when you are deprived of enough sleep.
Routine is important as well, especially with children.
It is vital to try and go to bed - and to sleep - at around the same time each night.
Waking up at the same time is important as well.
Again, this is especially helpful to children, who benefit from routines anyway.
Whenever you can do some calming, relaxing things before bedtime, you should.
Reading a book, listening to some peaceful music - these are all great examples.
You do not want to heighten the nervous system in any way, so watching TV is not the best idea.
In line with this tip, you also want to try to control your stress levels.
If you are stressed, you are more prone to sleepwalking.
Quite often, if you drink less before bed, that is a good idea as well.
Sometimes an episode can be triggered by the need to go to the bathroom.
Finally, try to record how many sleepwalking episodes you or your loved one has.
Figure out when they seem to occur.
If they happen at around the same time, you can set your alarm to wake up yourself or your kid.