The prevalence of sleep paralysis among the general population is estimated to range from 7.6% to 28%. However, there are high-risk groups—for example, students. In a survey conducted by scientists from India—Ramdas Bhat, Shashank Shetty, and Ramakrishna Shabaraya—41.2% of 203 students reported experiencing sleep paralysis. Moreover, one in two students experienced visual and auditory hallucinations.
The main causes of sleep paralysis are stress and poor sleep patterns, with academic workload and an excess of gadget usage also having an impact. However, sleep paralysis also affects daily life, as 43.7% of those who experience it reported a decrease in academic performance.
The authors recommend that universities actively address healthy sleep issues; create favorable conditions for sleep, especially in dormitories; teach basic principles of sleep hygiene; and take care of the psychological well-being of students. Screening for sleep paralysis should also be included in mandatory medical examinations.
Have you noticed sleep paralysis affecting your daily life?
The article was published in March 2025 in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Technology.
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