Sleep Debt Passed Down: Are We Inheriting Exhaustion from Our Mothers?
Sleep patterns don't just shape our nights, they shape generations. Experts reveal how maternal sleep deprivation can impact a child's stress levels and emotional well-being.
Sleep patterns and exhaustion don't just affect individuals—they can be passed down through generations. Maternal sleep habits have both biological and behavioral impacts on children. A sleep-deprived mother may unknowingly transmit stress to her children, leading to elevated cortisol levels. If she struggles to establish consistent sleep routines, it can delay the child's ability to self-regulate sleep. This disruption can also contribute to emotional and cognitive challenges, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression in children.
Dr. Usha Gaddam, MBBS, DNB (Family Medicine), CCEBM-Diabetics (PHFT), CCMH-Hypertension (PHFT), PGDIP (Clinical Endocrinology and Diabetes, EACME), CCMD-Mental Health (PHFT), Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, explains, 'Generational sleep behavior plays a substantial role through both genetics and environment. Some children are genetically predisposed to be night owls or early birds. These patterns can be inherited, and cultural habits may further reinforce chronic sleep deprivation across generations."
She further adds, 'Sleep disorders can affect both prenatal and postnatal development. Poor maternal sleep health increases the risk of gestational diabetes, preterm birth, low birth weight, and altered fetal brain development. It may also affect maternal hormone regulation, which directly influences fetal neurodevelopment. Mothers with sleep disorders often face difficulties in self-soothing, experience fragmented sleep, and may encounter long-term cognitive and behavioral challenges."
To break the cycle of inherited sleep debt, both lifestyle and mindset changes are essential. Prioritizing maternal sleep is not a luxury—it's a necessity. Creating a supportive and restful environment for mothers can positively impact both their own health and their children's well-being.
Create a calming sleep environment: Limit screen time, reduce noise, and keep the room dark and cool.
Involve family members: Encourage partners and relatives to share childcare responsibilities to allow mothers to rest.
Seek cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-I): Especially useful for those struggling with chronic insomnia or anxiety.
First Published:
May 14, 2025, 10:34 IST
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