Sleep Deprivation and Parents

If you are a recent parent, then you undoubtedly would like to get more sleep each night. There's no getting around it: 8 hours straight each night is a time of the past. Sleep deprivation is a dangerous condition to walk around in. It can lead to traffic accidents as well as fuel postpartum depression or psychosis. Here are five signs you are sleep deprived and simple tricks to help you cope:

1. Nodding off while driving to or from work- this is a dangerous sign of sleep deprivation. When we don't get enough rest at night, the vibrations of the ride as well as the repetitive tasks involved result in "highway hypnosis". If you find yourself doing this, make it a habit to drink a strong cup of coffee before you drive anywhere. Also, try rolling down the windows and putting on some music to make yourself alert.

2. Getting sleepy after a big meal- my father always called it "puppy dog syndrome". If after eating a full meal you feel like curling up in a ball and snoozing, then you need more rest! Try to stay away from heavy foods and opt for several smaller meals throughout the day; preferably, vegetables and fruits.

3. Sleeping through the alarm/hitting the snooze button repeatedly- Always wake up at the same time everyday. This will help your internal clock as well as fight insomnia that evening. Instead of using a buzzer, try the radio instead.

4. Irritability- are you ready to take your spouse or child's head off for the smallest thing? Could be the two measly hours of sleep you had last night. Try to remember that things only seem this bad because you are tired. Take a breather and try your hardest not to overreact.

5. Falling asleep while rocking/feeding baby- this happens to everyone in the beginning. Be sure to keep baby's safety in mind. If rocking the baby is putting you both to sleep, try something different- you don't want to wake up and find your arms suddenly empty!

There are other helpful tricks for sleep deprivation: power naps (15 minutes can make a huge difference and help recharge you), light exercise (go for a brisk stroll with baby around the block), and a healthy, balanced diet. Remember, it won't be like this forever. Before you know it, your baby will be a teenager and you won't be able to get him out of bed!