Sleep/awake detection

Hello pattig916,

Welcome to Apple Support Communities. If you are having trouble with the Apple Watch detecting when you are awake, you will want to check some settings for Wrist Detection and heart rate measurement. The guidance needed is listed in the Apple Support article: Get the most accurate measurements using your Apple Watch - Apple Support (TM)

"Make sure that Wrist Detection is on

If Wrist Detection is off, you won't get Stand notifications, and your Apple Watch can't track your Stand progress. Background heart rate readings (like resting and walking rates) won't be taken if Wrist Detection is off. 

To check the setting, open the Watch app on your iPhone. Tap the My Watch tab, then tap Passcode. Make sure that Wrist Detection is on.

Check the fit

Wearing Apple Watch with the right fit — not too tight, not too loose, and with room for your skin to breathe — keeps you comfortable and lets the sensors do their job. 

You might want to tighten your Apple Watch band for workouts, then loosen it when you’re done. In addition, the sensors will work only if you wear your Apple Watch on the top of your wrist.

Get the most accurate heart rate measurement

To get the most accurate heart rate measurement when you use Workout, make sure your Apple Watch fits snugly on top of your wrist. The heart rate sensor should stay close to your skin. Learn about the accuracy and limitations of the heart rate sensor.

If you have an Apple Watch Series 3 or later, track your cardio fitness levels to measure how hard your heart is working during an outdoor walk, run, or hike in the Workout app.

If you turn off Heart Rate in Privacy settings, you also won't get a heart rate measurement. To see if Heart Rate is off or on, open the Watch app on your iPhone, then tap Privacy."

Feel free to reach back out if you have any questions.

We hope this helps you.