Effective methods for coping with sleep deprivation as a new parent

Question

As a new parent, sleep deprivation can be a major challenge. What are some effective methods to cope with or reduce sleep deprivation? Have you personally tried any of these methods? If so, what was your experience?

Answer 1

I have two thoughts on the matter.

While money might be tight, consider hiring someone to clean your house once a week or so. I wish that my wife and I had done that.

Take turns caring for the baby if you're not breastfeeding or have bottles available to heat up. It sometimes means sleeping in another room, but even getting one night of good solid rest can help a lot. My daughter is a horrible sleeper as of late, and we generally alternate nights getting up with her in the middle of the night. Or alternatively, I generally get up with her between 12 and 5 AM.