What is a key feature of Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Arousal Disorder?

Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Arousal Disorder is characterized primarily by abnormal behaviors that occur during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. The key features of this disorder include episodes such as sleepwalking (somnambulism) and sleep terrors (night terrors), which manifest as arousals from sleep that are not associated with dreaming. Individuals may engage in complex behaviors while still being in a state of sleep and may have no memory of these events upon waking.

Sleepwalking involves performing routine activities while in a state of partial arousal from deeper stages of sleep, which can lead to safety concerns if the person is not in a safe environment. Sleep terrors typically involve a sudden awakening with a feeling of terror, screaming, or an intense fear response, often leading to confusion without a clear recall of the episode.

These behaviors are distinct from experiences like vivid dreams or nightmares, which are hallmarks of REM sleep, or consistent difficulty falling asleep, which relates more to insomnia disorders. Feeling refreshed after sleep is an indicator of healthy sleep quality, contrasting with the disruptions experienced in Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Arousal Disorder.