I am one of the people who has experienced this "scary moments" sleep experience.
I have had periods of when I was about to fall asleep, but suddenly I realized that I am falling asleep. So I tried to wake up and move, but couldn't. At that time I closed my eyes, but I am aware of the surrounding as if I have x-ray vision through my eyelids. For example, if my family was in the vicinity, I would know what they are doing.
Since I cannot move, that scared me and I tried to scream. In my mind I was speaking or screaming rather clearly, but I know I was just grunting inaudibly. Why was I screaming? I was trying to make them to wake me up. The paralysis felt like a weight has been put down on my chest.
What about you guys or girls? Have you ever experienced anything like that?