Sleep deprivation is no joke

Dec 30·1 min read

4 weeks in. Haven't slept more than 90 minutes straight in what feels like forever. Time moves weird now. Did I shower today? No idea. Are my socks matching? Don't care. I saw my reflection in the bathroom mirror this morning and genuinely didn't recognize myself. My coworkers have started asking if I'm okay. I'm not even using my paternity leave efficiently because I'm too tired to do anything but sit and hold the baby.

6 comments476 views

Comments(6)

CChris M.New DadDec 30

If you're really struggling consider asking for help from family or friends so you can get one solid 4 hour block. Sounds small but it genuinely helps reset your brain a bit.

MMatt J.RegularDec 31

Those 90 minute windows are brutal. Honestly the 4 week mark is when things usually start getting a tiny bit better for most people. Maybe by week 6 or 7 you'll get some 2-3 hour stretches. Hang in there.

JJosh H.New DadDec 31

Have you tried shifting it so your partner takes one block and you take another? I know that sounds obvious but so many guys don't actually do the hand off. We did midnight to 3am me, 3 to 6 her, and it was way more sustainable than trying to be alert all night together.

MMark T.New DadDec 31

The weird time feeling is so real. Days are forever and also somehow gone? It gets better I promise. By month 3 you'll start adjusting to your new normal.

CCraigNew DadJan 1

This stage sucks but you're doing better than you think. 4 weeks is survival mode and you're surviving.

CCole B.RegularJan 1

Week 4 was actually when I had a mini breakdown because my brain wasn't functioning. Totally normal. Make sure you're eating actual food and not just coffee. I survived on coffee for three weeks and it made everything worse.