The first few months with your little one are pure bliss! It’s all about cuddling, feeding and those little milestones that make your heart melt. But to be fair: those sleep interruptions at night are a real bother. Sleep deprivation sometimes seems like an inevitable side effect of parenthood. Still, it’s good to understand what sleep deprivation does to your body and mind and what you can do to make it more bearable.
What are the effects of sleep deprivation?
Lack of sleep doesn’t just drain your energy. It can also severely affect your body and mind. It may result in decreased concentration levels, moodiness and lower responsiveness. In the long run, sleep deprivation can even contribute to increased blood pressure, weight gain and a higher risk of heart problems. Unfortunately, for parents with a newborn, these are quite common challenges.
Psychological effects of sleep deprivation
Lack of sleep can also affect your mental health. Research shows that lack of sleep can lead to irritability, gloom and even depression. For young parents, this can be especially hard. One-third of mothers with postpartum depression experience structural sleep deprivation. So it is important to take these complaints seriously and to recognize the tell-tale signs, both in yourself and your partner.
The long-term effects of sleep deprivation
Are you aware that long-term sleep deprivation affects your brain functions? Your memory does not work as well, and it will become more difficult to think logically or make decisions. In addition, it can affect your relationships. Fatigue causes minor irritations to magnify more quickly, which can cause tension in your family. So it is important not only for yourself but also for those around you to take countermeasures in good time.
What can you do to prevent sleep deprivation?
- Ask for help
Remember that you don’t have to go it alone. Ask friends or family to help out, even if only for a few hours so that you can catch up on sleep or do something for yourself. Many people actually enjoy helping out. - Talk to a professional
Sometimes it makes sense to get help. Then consult your family doctor, obstetrician or the childcare clinic about your symptoms of fatigue. They can assist you with advice or refer you to a specialist. - Plan your moments of rest sensibly
Try to find time when you can get some rest. It does not always have to be a full few hours of sleep. Sometimes a 20-minute power nap will hit the spot just as well. - Be kind to yourself
It sounds like a simple notion, but don’t forget that you have to look after your own needs. A hot shower, a cup of tea or a moment on the couch watching your favorite show can help you regain some of your energy.
Keep faith, things will be all right
Your baby’s sleep rhythm develops slowly but surely. This may be frustrating at times, but all babies eventually learn to sleep through the night. Trust that this will happen to your little one as well. Tip: With The Wonder Weeks app, you can learn more about the leaps your baby is going through. It will help you understand why your baby sometimes needs more attention and enable you to respond accordingly.
With the right support, a little creativity and some adjustments in your routine, you’ll get through the first period with your baby, despite the interrupted nights. And remember: this phase is temporary. You’re doing well, even if sometimes it feels like you’re falling short.
