Episode 115: The mental load of sleep – who carries it in your house?

Episode 115: The mental load of sleep – who carries it in your house?

From Brand New Little People by Dr Fallon Cook & Dr Laura Conway (PhD's, Sleep Practitioners)

March 16, 2026 · 1h 4m

About this episode

This episode explores the mental load of sleep that parents carry and offers strategies for sharing that load.

You know the feeling: your baby is finally asleep, but your brain is just getting started 😓 In this episode, Dr. Fallon Cook & Dr. Laura Conway (PhDs, Sleep Practitioners) dive into something that keeps so many parents awake long after bedtime - the mental load of sleep. We’re talking about the 2am maths equations, the endless planning, and the invisible second shift that runs on a loop in your head. Join us as we name it, unpack why it hits so hard, and share practical strategies for sharing the load so you can actually rest when your little one does.   Need support? ✅ Join our  Sombelle Paediatric Sleep Clinic Programs  and add on a coaching call with Dr Fallon for extra support! 🏢 Local to Melbourne?   Visit Dr Laura for an in-person appointment   at Victorian Children's Clinic, or explore telehealth options.   Give us some love! ☕️ Love our work?  Buy us a coffee! 📲 Follow us on   instagram   |   Facebook  |   TikTok 💖 Tell your mates about us    Subscribe 🔽 ❤️ Listen on  Apple Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Amazon Music 🎥 Watch this episode on  YouTube

People in this episode

Hosts: Dr. Fallon Cook, Dr. Laura Conway

Topics covered

  • mental load of sleep
  • parenting
  • sleep strategies
  • work-life balance
  • child sleep

Keywords

  • mental load
  • sleep
  • parenting
  • strategies
  • rest
  • children
  • support

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Sombelle Paediatric Sleep Clinic, Victorian Children's Clinic

Places: Melbourne

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