10/05/2025
Be extra gentle on yourselves, sleep-deprived moms! The effects on physical and mental health are real, maximise as much support and self-care as possible during this season.
I've been that sleep-deprived mum, waking hourly for years. And I have been a more well-rested one, waking once or twice a night.
I know that every journey is different and every mother has their own, unique cross to bear. That the days are tough for all of us, in many different ways.
But I also know which version of motherhood stole me away from myself. Robbed me of my peace during his littlest years.
Because EVERYTHING is harder with no sleep.
When you are so easily teetering on the verge of tears at any given moment.
When your next opportunity for rest plays heavily on your mind.
When you wake up, immediately hankering for another bedtime, while simultaneously dreading the prospect of it.
When sleep has practically become an obsession and it feels like you're doing everything wrong.
Please, go gentle with that sleep-deprived mum.
Maybe expect a little less from her.
Maybe acknowledge the fact that she is enduring what is an actual, proven method of torture, on a daily basis. For weeks, months or sometimes years on end.
Maybe spare her the details of your seven-til-seven sleepers. Maybe keep that stuff to yourself.
Instead, ply her with tea and affection. Tell her what a wonderful job she is doing.
Because, believe me, she really needs to hear it.
Art by: June Jewell Designs
Words by: Mother Truths
Words taken from my book:
'STRETCHED: all the feels from second-time motherhood'
Available to buy here: http://linktr.ee/mother_truths
