There is no doubt that getting sleep with a new baby is challenging. After baby number 2 and returning to work there were nights when I got 4 hours of sleep and then worked all day. No surprise then that she finally started sleeping through the night at AGE 2 :)
Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, trouble focusing, relationship troubles, and can even lead to depression.
So how do you survive these times with a baby and get your much needed rest here are 3 tips to get you through your day.
Tip #1 Sleep when baby sleeps
Easier said than done right? And probably heard this from others, but it definitely helps. When baby naps during the day you nap. The dishes, laundry, and other household chores can wait, believe me it can. Getting that sleep is vital to your self care. Take advantage of this time with baby and get that rest before you know it they'll be running around the house.
Tip #2 Ask for help
This one I struggle with the most, but important. There is no reason why you must try and do it all on your own. Ask your partner to spend time with baby to so you can sleep, invite a friend over, or family member to help you with baby as well. Take advantage of the offers to help people are giving you, overcome any stubbornness, and say YES! To the help!
Tip #3 Mindset change
Letting down your expectations that baby should be sleeping more, so you can sleep more, let go of expecting to feel completely rested and caught up all the time. Let go of being angry that you don't have time for yourself to even sleep. Having a positive mindset and the expectation that right now, during this transition it is going to be hard, but it is doable. You won't get the best sleep, but this time will pass. You are tired a lot, but this won't be forever. Telling yourself these positive self statements will help you to have a more positive outlook. You can do this and remember you don't have to do it alone.
Lastly...
If you begin to notice that even with sleep you are continuing to struggle don't stay silent reach out for help. Whether that's family, friends, or your faith community. Getting support from others is OKAY. There is a reason why the saying exists "it takes a village to raise a child". Therapy could also be a solution to overcome these struggles.
Make the call today to find relief.
Proving counseling services in Northern Colorado