How Sleep Training Your Baby Can Reduce Anxiety and Depression for New Moms: Evidence-Based Research

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Pediatric Sleep Coach, I often work with new moms who are struggling to get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can have a wide range of negative effects on our physical and mental health, from decreased immune function to increased risk of depression and anxiety.

But what if I told you that sleep training your baby could actually help reduce anxiety and depression? It may sound too good to be true, but there is actually a growing body of research to support this claim.

One study published in the journal Pediatrics found that moms who participated in a sleep training program reported significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than those who did not. The study followed 43 mothers of infants aged 6-16 months who were experiencing sleep problems. Half of the mothers participated in a sleep training program that involved gradual extinction, while the other half received no intervention. After two weeks, the moms in the sleep training group reported significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than their counterparts.

Another study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that sleep training can also help reduce maternal anxiety. The study followed 80 mothers of infants aged 6-16 months who were experiencing sleep problems. Half of the mothers participated in a sleep training program that involved graduated extinction, while the other half received a control intervention. After two weeks, the moms in the sleep training group reported significantly lower levels of anxiety than those in the control group.

So why does sleep training have such a positive effect on maternal mental health? For one, it can help moms get the rest they need to function at their best. When you're not constantly waking up throughout the night to tend to your baby, you'll be better rested and more able to cope with the challenges of motherhood.

But there's also a psychological component at play. When you're able to successfully get your baby to sleep independently, you may feel a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. This can help boost your self-esteem and confidence as a parent, leading to a more positive outlook overall.

Of course, it's important to remember that sleep training is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. As a pediatric sleep coach, I always work with families to find an approach that feels right for them and their family’s unique needs.

But if you're a new mom struggling with anxiety or depression, it's worth considering sleep training as a potential solution. With the right approach and mindset, it can be a powerful tool for improving your mental health and overall wellbeing.

In conclusion, research suggests that sleep training can help reduce anxiety and depression for new moms. By helping moms get the rest they need and promoting a sense of empowerment and accomplishment, sleep training can have a positive impact on maternal mental health. As always, it's important to work with a professional to find the approach that's right for you and your baby's unique needs. If you are wanting to get started, you can schedule a 15 min intro call today.