Substance Use Can Increase Risks for an Unsafe Sleep Space for Baby
It’s important to be aware of how alcohol, cannabis (marijuana, THC, pot), opioids, illicit drug use, and some medicines can affect your decision-making, especially when it comes to how and where baby sleeps.
Infant accidental suffocation deaths can happen when parents or caregivers are using alcohol, drugs, or certain medicines. It can be harder to be sure that baby is sleeping safely if parents or caregivers are impaired.
If parents or caregivers are sharing a sleep space with a baby, they may not be aware of where the baby is sleeping and whether any bedding is covering baby or whether baby has rolled into any bedding. The parents or caregivers themselves may not be aware that they have rolled onto baby.
Research has shown that when a parent has drunk two or more drinks of alcohol and then slept with a baby, that baby is at much higher risk of dying from sleep-related causes and the younger the baby the higher the risk. This study also showed a much greater risk of a baby dying of sleep-related causes associated with a parent’s use of illegal drugs when bed sharing.
Need Help?
The Alcohol / Drug Council of NC provides information and referrals to alcohol and drug treatment. They also provide educational programs and materials to businesses, community groups, families, and individuals. There are special programs for mothers who are pregnant and those caring for their babies/young children.
Call Anytime 800.688.4232 Text M-F 12AM-6PM 919.908.3196
