Your baby's sleep doesn't exist in a vacuum—it's deeply connected to the stress and emotions around them. Research suggests that when babies face multiple stressors like parental stress, financial strain, or health challenges, they may sleep worse and show more emotional struggles by 12 months old. The good news? Sleep and stress are two separate issues you can tackle independently. If you're able to improve your baby's sleep habits and build calm, consistent routines, that can buffer against other challenges in their life. Equally important: if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress during pregnancy or after birth, getting support for your own mental health may genuinely help your baby sleep better. You're not just caring for yourself—you're also supporting your baby's development and rest.