Psychological Treatment for Sleepwalking: two case reports

Sleep architecture and polysomnographic findings show that the majority of sleepwalking episodes occur during slow-wave sleep (SWS). Although genetics play an important role in the manifestation of sleepwalking, recent studies have shown that parasomnias are also associated with other sleep or mental disorders and psychological factors. Sleepwalking prevalence rates are higher in childhood than in adulthood. Due to the risk of injuries beyond the presence of associated symptoms, those who suffer from sleepwalking often seek medical treatment. Treatment is commonly based on pharmacologic intervention, particularly the use of the benzodiazepinic drug clonazepam. However, some patients do not respond to this medication or present side effects. The aim of this report was to demonstrate psychological integrity and functioning as a correlate of a sleepwalking predisposition and to describe a sleep disorder-focused psychotherapy as an option for treating sleepwalking in adults that shows effects on sleep-related behaviors, psychological symptoms, and objective sleep data.