If you haven't already, listen to Episode 11 first. That's where Sophia's story begins.

At 21 years old, Sophia became a mum in a brand new relationship. Within a few short years, severe sleep deprivation, relationship breakdown and the reality of single motherhood completely changed the course of her life.

After years of surviving on broken sleep, Sophia developed PTSD and became convinced she would never have another child. It would be another 15 years before she became a mum again.

In this episode, Sophia shares what really happened behind closed doors, how sleep deprivation destroyed her confidence, the impact it had on her mental health and relationships, and how discovering the science behind infant sleep gave her a second chance at motherhood.

We talk about sleep deprivation, PTSD, single motherhood, divorce, rebuilding self-esteem, evidence-based sleep training and why Sophia ultimately became a baby sleep consultant to help other families avoid reaching the same breaking point.

If you've ever wondered whether sleep deprivation can change who you are, questioned your parenting, struggled after divorce or felt like motherhood had broken your confidence, this conversation is for you.

For more real stories of motherhood, sleep and survival, follow @awakeat3am.podcast.

For evidence-based infant sleep advice, follow @sophiassleepschool.