Waking up unable to move, sometimes while seeing dark figures or hearing voices, is commonly called "ghost pressing" but has a medical explanation. A psychiatrist at Taipei City Hospital's Renai Branch said the brain may wake before the body resumes movement. It is usually benign, and changing sleep position and keeping a regular schedule may reduce episodes.

Sleep paralysis usually occurs while waking, when the brain is conscious but the body remains in a sleep state. The person may be fully aware but unable to move, usually recovering within minutes. Dream imagery may linger, causing some people to see dark figures, hear sounds or feel pressure on the chest, turning a brief physical reaction into intense fear.

Lack of sleep, staying up late, frequent changes between day and night shifts, jet lag and life stress can increase the risk. Sleeping on the back may also make sleep paralysis more likely, while side sleeping may reduce it. People who experience it often can start by restoring a regular sleep schedule and changing their sleeping position.

However, being unable to move after waking should not automatically be considered sleep paralysis. Some sleep or neurological disorders can cause similar symptoms, such as suddenly falling asleep during the day or remaining unable to move after waking. If the cause is unclear or symptoms recur, seek medical care for further evaluation.

If an episode occurs, people who sleep with someone nearby can tell them in advance and ask them to touch or tap their body if they hear groaning or see signs of struggling. The person experiencing it can also remind themselves that it is temporary and physiological. Regular sleep, avoiding sleeping on the back and reducing stress may help; recurrent episodes should be discussed with a doctor.