Anxiety About Baby Sleeping? Why it Happens and What to Do
Is Your Baby’s (And Your) Sleep Schedule Stressing You Out?
Newborns don’t come with instruction manuals detailing their sleep habits and why they fight sleep when they’re tired, leaving many new parents understandably anxious as they navigate the uncertain waters of what constitutes “normal” baby sleep. However, the desire for establishing a consistent sleep routine can sometimes stir up more anxiety than the unpredictability it aims to tame. Is the pursuit of a consistent sleep pattern making you more anxious than the lack of it?
Racing Thoughts
Information Overload
Dreading Nap and Bedtime
Give Yourself a Break
The first step in dealing with baby-related anxiety is to cut yourself some slack. Acknowledge that you’re doing the best you can, and that is enough. It’s important to try not to catastrophize; you’re not ruining anyone’s life, and you will get through this. Remember, a lot of mothers go through this—you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed or anxious. If you find yourself at a point where it feels like you’ve tried everything, consider getting some outside help. Sometimes, your baby might pick up on your anxiety, and they could potentially find it easier to sleep with someone else performing the same routines you’ve attempted. This doesn’t reflect on your abilities as a parent but is a common experience for many. Asking for help when needed is a sign of strength, not failure, and can provide you with the break and support you need to regain your balance.
Accept the Unknown
Sometimes, focusing on what we don’t know can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Learn to sit with the uncertainty and know that it’s okay not to have all the answers. You and your newborn are learning together, remember you’re constantly evolving throughout your matrescence!
Breathe Through it
Engage in Self-Care
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make it a priority to take care of yourself as much as you do your little one. Whether it’s a warm bath, a walk outside, or just a few moments of quiet, self-care is essential for managing anxiety. When the baby is sleeping, allow yourself to rest. Remember, rest is also productive.
Structure Your Research Time
Limit Screen Time
focus on reliable parenting sources
Consult Pediatric Professionals
Don’t Pivot too Early
Understand Stages of Development
Be Flexible
Create a supportive environment
Prioritize Your Own Sleep
Parental sleep is often an afterthought when it comes to anxiety about baby sleep, but it’s crucial for your well-being and your ability to care for your child! Sleep deprivation can have a domino effect causing upheaval in other aspects of your life like caring for older children, relationship strain, and your career.
utilize a support system
Whether it’s a partner, family member, or friend, having someone who can help with nighttime care can give you the rest you need. Even just a few uninterrupted hours of sleep can make a significant difference. Better understand your sleep patterns and create a game plan to protect a chunk of at least 4 hours. This might mean going to bed earlier than normal. If your baby tends to sleep best from 8 pm to midnight you should sleep at this time also! Our guide to How To Get Sleep With A Newborn includes a sleep plan, tracker, journal and effective sleep support strategies written by our own psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and mama of three! When we say we understand how important sleep is in postpartum, we mean it.
don't be afraid to seek professional help
This Too sHALL PASS, MAMA
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Lauren Hays, PMHNP
Lauren was a licensed and trained registered nurse in the NICU and has since made a career shift to focus on mental health. Lauren is now a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, focusing on women’s health and wellness. She is a mom of three precious little men who has turned her pain into passion.
