FAQ: Parasomnias

Parasomnias are sleep disorders characterized by abnormal or unusual sleep behaviours.

Some can be embarrassing or very strange or even terrifying to experience.  These are some of the main ones:Bed Wetting / Sleep Enuresis is very common and affects many children and some adults.. There are many possible causes including stress, infections, trauma, diabetes, or other sleep disorders such as Sleep Apnoea.Hypnagogic Hallucinations –  a vivid, dream-like sensation that an individual hears, sees, feels or even smells and that occurs near the onset of sleep.  It may seem like others are in the room. It can be linked to Narcolepsy.Sleep Walking – the NHS description is ‘walking or carrying out other activities when you are asleep’’ It is more common in children than adults.Sleep Paralysis – is very frightening.  It is a temporary inability to move or speak that happens when you’re waking up or falling asleep.Bruxism/ Teeth Grinding  – Most people who grind their teeth and clench their jaw aren’t aware they’re doing it. Some people get facial pain and headaches, and it can wear down their teeth over time.Night Terrors are episodes of screaming, intense fear and flailing while still asleep.  It can be very disturbing for the sleeper and anyone experiencing it.Exploding Head Syndrome – feeling as if a bomb has gone off by your head, just as you are falling asleep, often accompanied by a flash of light.How I can helpIf you are suffering from Parasomnia, I can help you retrain your mind and body to

  • Stop doing the unwanted behaviour or wake you if it startsIdentify and deal with the root cause of the problemCalm your system to enable you to get to sleep, sleep through the night and fall back to sleep quickly if you wake
  • If you would like more information or would like to talk to someone, do get in touch.  I offer a free initial 30-minute telephone / online consultation.