Sleep Talking

Also known as: talking in your sleep, somniloquy.

What is sleep talking?

When a child talks in his or her sleep without being aware of it, this is known as sleep talking. It can vary in frequency and volume and is rarely harmful. Usually the child is not aware of it.

What causes sleep talking?

Sleep talking can sometimes run in families. It can also be caused by stress, alcohol use, sleep deprivation or other medical conditions. It’s often related to intense dreams or nightmares, as well.

What are the symptoms of sleep talking?

In most cases, sleep talking occurs infrequently and is relatively harmless. In other cases, it can be frequent, loud and/or annoying to a bedmate and embarrassing to the sleep talker.

What are sleep talking care options?

In most cases, no treatment is necessary for sleep talking. Treating related conditions or getting on regular sleep schedule can help in some situations.

Reviewed by: Mercedes Bello, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:36 PM