Trapped Between Sleep and Wakefulness? The Truth About Sleep Paralysis

What Causes It?

Experts link sleep paralysis to factors such as stress, exhaustion, depression, and chronic anxiety. These disrupt healthy sleep cycles and increase the likelihood of an episode. The first experience can be especially frightening — a sudden, inexplicable paralysis that feels as though an unseen force is pressing down on you.

Is It Dangerous?

Although sleep paralysis feels terrifying, it’s not physically harmful and usually doesn’t require medical treatment. Prevention is the best approach. Specialists recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule — going to bed and waking up at the same times each day — and creating a calm, relaxing environment before bedtime. Reducing stress and quieting the mind are also key to restful sleep.