Hallucinations and self-harm in sleep?

LegacyUser

I've had this problem for a couple of years now. The most frequent occurance of it is biting the inside of my mouth in my sleep. It can range from slightly sore to something painful, when I wake up with my teeth literally embedded in my flesh. Other than that I've also scratched and hit myself during the night.
All this is more annoying than worrying and none of it REALLY hurts, but the worst part is the sensory bit, which may or may not be accompanied by harming myself.
I've seen figures standing by my bed, just shadows with no definate forms or faces. Once or twice I've seen them moving across my room. I've heard voices and only sometimes been able to identify them as my own. I've felt hands holding parts of my body. Last night I imagined I heard someone sit down on my bed. It creaked really loudly and I swear I even felt the matress sink. When I opened my eyes there was nothing there.
I know all of this is just my imagination, but it really interferes with my rest. I'm often nervous of going to bed (though I love sleep) because I'm afraid something like this will happen. Has anyone else experienced this? Any advice?

Oryx

OP, I also mod Paranormal so Ive seen posts like yours quite a bit, as people think this kind of thing fits there. Thats not to say there is anything paranormal about it, though!

The most common explanation for seeing figures and being held down in sleep is sleep paralysis. Its very common, its caused by your mind being half awake while your body is still in deep sleep mode and switched off. I know the sensations seem real, but it actually because youre dreaming while almost awake.

As for the self harm and fidgeting, you sound like a restless sleeper alright. Your first solution should be to see a gp to rule out any physical causes, and ask them or a dentist about something to protect your mouth (people who grind their teeth need help like that also). Maybe consider what kind of stress you are under and see if you can reduce it, as it could be your daytime stresses coming out in sleep.

woodchuck

I agree with what Oryx has posted.

A dentist can have you fitted for a mouthguard to wear at night, which should stop you biting your mouth.

I've experienced sleep paralysis, but only on isolated occasions. I was convinced there was someone standing at the end of my bed. Of course there wasn't, but it was a terrifying experience so I really feel for you if you're going through this on any sort of regular basis. It's probably worthwhile going to a doctor about it to see if there is anything they can give you to help?

There's the obvious things to help you sleep better including not consuming caffeine or any other stimulants in the evening (including coffee, soft drinks, chocolate). Taking an hour to just relax before you go to bed (eg listening to relaxing music... not watching tv). Using your bedroom as a place purely to relax/unwind (no tv, work, internet). You probably already know about these and you might need something more than that, but figured it couldn't hurt to throw them out there.