Parasomnias are a group of sleep disorders characterized by abnormal behaviors, emotions, perceptions, and movements that occur during sleep or while transitioning between sleep stages. These disruptions can significantly impact an individual's quality of sleep and overall well-being.

Common parasomnias include:

• Nightmares: Intense, vivid dreams that evoke feelings of fear, terror, or anxiety, often leading to abrupt awakenings during the night.
• Sleepwalking: Involves walking or performing complex behaviors while asleep, typically occurring during non-REM sleep stages. Sleepwalking episodes can range from simply sitting up in bed to completing complex tasks such as cooking or driving a car.
• Sleep Terrors: Also known as night terrors, these are abrupt awakenings accompanied by intense fear and agitation. Unlike nightmares, sleep terrors occur during deep non-REM sleep stages and individuals may have no recollection of the episode upon waking.
• REM Behavior Disorder: Dream enactment

If you or a loved one experiences parasomnias such as sleepwalking, nightmares, or sleep terrors, seeking treatment is important to improve overall sleep quality and reduce potential risks associated with these behaviors.

Treatment options may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A structured approach to tackling insomnia by addressing thoughts and behaviors affecting sleep.
• Medications: Pharmaceutical options to aid in managing sleep disorders, prescribed based on individual needs.
• Improving Sleep Hygiene Practices: Establishing healthy habits and routines to promote better sleep quality and duration.
• Relaxation Techniques: Methods such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress and promote relaxation before bedtime.
• Scheduled Awakening Therapy: A strategy involving waking up intentionally during the night to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve overall sleep patterns.