You tell yourself, “I’m fine. I’m just a little tired.”
But then you put the car keys in the fridge.
You stare blankly at the wall during a 3 a.m. feed.
You snap at your partner over something tiny — and then feel guilty five seconds later.
Here’s the truth: you’re not “just tired.” You’re deep-in-the-trenches exhausted — like so many new moms, especially when your baby struggles with reflux.
You’re running on empty. And it’s okay to admit that.
Note: This article offers emotional support and general information. For medical concerns, always consult your healthcare provider.
1. You’re Numb, Not Just Tired
Sleep deprivation isn’t always crying in a corner (though sometimes it is).
Sometimes it looks like going through the motions with no emotion left.
You feed, you rock, you clean, you repeat. But it feels like you’re not really there.
Why it happens:
Chronic exhaustion affects your nervous system and emotional capacity. You can’t pour from an empty cup — and right now, yours is bone dry.
✅ What to do:
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Acknowledge what’s happening without guilt.
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Ask for help — a partner, friend, or family member.
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Rest whenever possible, even if it’s short stretches.
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Remind yourself this isn’t who you are — it’s exhaustion speaking.
2. You Forget Everything
You walk into a room and forget why you’re there.
You lose track of bottles, diapers, conversations.
It feels like your brain has holes in it.
Why it happens:
Sleep deprivation affects cognitive function the same way being intoxicated does. You’re not “scattered” — your brain is literally struggling to keep up.
✅ What to do:
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Simplify everything — less to remember = less mental load.
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Use reminders, lists, alarms.
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Prioritize sleep over tasks whenever possible.
3. You Feel Irritable Over the Smallest Things
That one sock left on the floor suddenly feels like the end of the world.
You snap, then immediately feel guilty.
Why it happens:
When your energy is low, your emotional tolerance drops. What you’d normally shrug off can feel like a mountain.
✅ What to do:
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Give yourself permission to feel — and to reset.
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Step away, breathe, let go of the guilt.
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Share the load where you can.
4. Your Body Feels Heavy and On Edge at the Same Time
You’re both exhausted and wired. Your shoulders ache. Your jaw is tight. Your heart races when the baby cries.
Why it happens:
Postpartum sleep deprivation often triggers your fight-or-flight system. Your body is in survival mode — always “on,” never resting.
✅ What to do:
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Create calm signals for your nervous system: slow breathing, dim lights, soft music.
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Avoid overstimulation at night.
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If reflux keeps your baby (and you) up, consider ways to reduce their discomfort — it can directly ease your stress.
This is where DreamNest™ can help.
With its pediatric-recommended 15° incline, breathable materials, and anti-roll safety design, it helps babies sleep more comfortably — and gives moms a chance to finally exhale.
👉 Try DreamNest™ 100% risk-free for 90 nights.
5. You’ve Stopped Asking for Help
Maybe you used to ask your partner or family to take over for a bit.
Now you don’t — not because you don’t need it, but because it feels pointless. You’ve accepted exhaustion as your new normal.
But it’s not normal.
It’s common — but not something you have to just survive alone.
✅ What to do:
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Start with one small ask — a nap, a meal, a break.
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Let people show up for you.
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You deserve support, not just survival.
Reflux Doesn’t Just Affect Babies — It Affects Moms
When your baby struggles with reflux, you’re not just caring for a fussy infant.
You’re holding, feeding, burping, and comforting for hours on end, every single night.
This level of exhaustion isn’t weakness.
It’s what happens when love collides with relentless sleepless nights.
You matter, too.
Your energy, your mental health, your rest — they’re just as important as your baby’s comfort.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m “too tired”?
If you feel emotionally numb, forgetful, on edge, or hopeless, you’re past regular tired. It’s time to get support.
Can easing my baby’s reflux really help me too?
Yes — when your baby sleeps more comfortably, you get longer stretches of rest too.
Is this postpartum depression or just exhaustion?
They can overlap. If your exhaustion comes with persistent sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Do I need to “tough it out”?
No. Sleep deprivation isn’t something you just power through. You need — and deserve — rest and help.
Conclusion: You’re Allowed to Stop Pretending You’re Fine
You don’t have to prove anything.
You don’t have to carry it all.
You don’t have to smile through tears.
Being this tired isn’t a badge of honor. It’s a sign your body and mind need care.
