What’s one dangerous thing a lot of mothers across North America are doing every night? Popping a sleeping pill. New statistics show that nearly 1 in 3 moms take powerful prescription sleeping medications like Lunesta and Ambien every night, sometimes even sedatives like Xanax.

So, why are moms having trouble falling asleep naturally? Experts say the big misconception is that their children are keeping them up, because they had a nightmare, or want a glass of water. Instead, surveys show that the number one reason moms today can’t sleep is because they’re stressed out. Experts say that the down economy has forced a lot of women to go back to work, or work longer hours, so they’re extremely anxious juggling their roles of worker and caregiver. This makes it nearly impossible for their brain to wind down enough so they can doze off.

Without sleeping pills, a lot of moms lie awake for hours obsessing over every item on their to-do list, like making cupcakes for their child’s swim team or answering client emails. But experts warn that sleeping pills are only a temporary fix and long-term, it could be a deadly move.

That’s because your body can become addicted to sleeping pills and sedatives after taking them for only a couple of weeks. When they don’t work as well, a lot of women pop even more pills to fall asleep, dramatically boosting their risk of side effects and even overdose. If you can’t sleep, doctors suggest skipping the pills, and seeing a therapist instead. They’ll be able to help you come up with ways to control your anxiety, and get a good night’s sleep, no pills required.