Sleep talking is known as somniloquy in medical terms. It is classified as parasomnia, which is a category of sleep disorder. Sleep walking, teeth grinding and night terrors are some of the other behaviors that fall under parasomnia. Sleep talkers may not just talk but also make noises like groans, grunts, chuckles and whispers. If the problem is severe then one can hear long conversational talks of people prone to sleep talking. It becomes quite embarrassing if a person gets to know that he / she has spoken something vulgar or mean. As per researchers about 50% of children up to 10 years of age indulge in sleep talking and, in many cases, there is a genetic link to this. Though the ratio of sleep talking is equal in male and female children, male adults indulge in more sleep talking compared to female adults.

Why do people talk in their sleep?

It happens when the mind and body are totally exhausted, like when one is extremely tired after a busy day at work. Other possible reasons could be:

• Irregular bedtime patterns 
• High fever 
• Use of certain drugs
• Alcoholism
• Not getting enough rest on a regular basis
• Anxiety 
• Emotional traumas
• Depression

How to get rid of the habit of sleep talking?

Children outgrow the habit. It disappears as they start growing older. Research indicates that there are about 5% adults who indulge in sleep talking. Apart from controlled alcohol use, they may consult their physician if the pattern has started after being prescribed certain drugs. A mental health professional can be approached if there are internal conflicts that are disturbing the mind. Other than this, adults need to take care of their sleep hygiene by maintaining good bedtime habits. One should get a good amount of sleep everyday and should keep the use of electronic devices minimal in the bedroom. If the problem of sleep talking is a cause of huge embarrassment to you, consult a sleep specialist without delay.