Mom Asks If She’s an ‘Awful Mother’ for Wanting to Try the ‘Cry It Out’ Method with Her 7-Month-Old Baby

A mother has taken to Reddit to seek advice on whether she is an “awful mother” for considering the ‘cry it out’ method with her 7-month-old baby. In her post, she shared her struggles with her son’s sleep issues, expressing that her mental health has deteriorated as a result. This marks her second child, with her first never experiencing similar challenges in sleeping. She explained that her son refuses to sleep unless she is holding or cuddling him, leading to severe exhaustion. With her partner working four nights a week, she finds herself alone during the night, trying to cater to both her son and daughter. The mother expressed desperation, admitting that she has never considered the cry it out method before but feels it may be her last resort in this situation.

The cry it out method involves allowing a baby to self-soothe by checking on them at intervals while they cry, eventually leading them to fall asleep independently. Despite her reservations about the technique potentially affecting their strong bond, the mother felt compelled to explore this option due to the severity of her sleep deprivation. The Reddit community responded with empathy and understanding, offering support and shared experiences of how the method had been life-changing for them in similar circumstances. They highlighted the importance of prioritising the mother’s mental health, acknowledging that sleep deprivation could have detrimental effects on her well-being and ability to care for her family effectively.

Following the advice she received, the mother decided to try the cry it out method with her son. She described the process, mentioning that initially, he cried for a few minutes on and off, but eventually, he settled down and fell asleep. This successful outcome, achieved within a relatively short period compared to the hours of rocking she had previously endured, brought immense relief and joy to the mother. In an update to her post, she expressed gratitude for the support and shared her happiness at seeing her son peacefully asleep. The positive impact of implementing the cry it out method on both the baby’s sleep patterns and the mother’s well-being was evident, allowing for a more sustainable and healthy sleeping routine for the family.

The mother’s journey resonated with many in similar situations, highlighting the challenges faced by parents dealing with sleep issues in infants and the emotional toll it can take. The discussion on Reddit showcased a supportive community willing to offer advice and reassurance to those grappling with difficult parenting decisions. Ultimately, the mother’s decision to try the cry it out method reflected her dedication to finding a solution that prioritised both her child’s needs and her own mental health. This narrative serves as a reminder of the complexities of parenthood and the importance of seeking support and exploring various strategies to address challenging situations effectively.

As parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children, open conversations like the one initiated by the mother on Reddit can provide valuable insights and support. The willingness to share personal experiences and seek advice reflects a sense of solidarity within the parenting community, fostering a sense of understanding and empathy. The mother’s willingness to consider alternative methods and prioritize her well-being serves as a powerful example of the resilience and dedication exhibited by caregivers facing daunting challenges. By highlighting the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed, she underscores the significance of embracing various strategies to promote a healthy and nurturing environment for both parents and children alike.