10/09/2026
I agree infant sleep varies hugely from baby to baby, and frequent waking, needing support to settle and wanting close proximity can all be completely normal.
But there’s an important part of the conversation we can’t leave out:
What about the parents?
When a parent is waking every 45 minutes, night after night, or barely functioning from severe sleep deprivation, this can become about far more than “being a bit tired.”
Parental wellbeing matters too.
Supporting infant sleep doesn’t have to mean ignoring a baby’s needs, forcing independence or using a one-size-fits-all approach.
There are responsive, compassionate ways to support sleep while also considering the health, wellbeing and capacity of the whole family.
You shouldn’t have to choose between being responsive to your baby and looking after yourself. Both matter.
What are your thoughts?
Did sleep deprivation affect your mental health or ability to function?