Back to school is a common time for kids to experience feelings of anxiety, or exacerbated anxiety. Anxiety is a multi-system response to a perceived threat or danger. It can affect any system in the body, which is why symptoms differ between people. The symptoms can vary, but some of the most common include:

  • A racing heartbeat, palpitations, sweating, breathlessness, dizziness, excessive worrying, feeling fatigued or weak, dry mouth, digestive disturbances, and disturbances to sleep patterns. 

In this episode I discuss:

  • Some of the most common causes and risk factors when it comes to anxiety in kids including:
    • Genetic factors such as MTHFR gene mutation;
    • Trauma;
    • Gut health and the links between dysbiosis and anxiety, and the benefits of a balanced microbiome;
    • Hormones, especially during puberty & pre-menstrual;
    • Nutrient deficiencies, and the importance of Magnesium and B-Vitamins;
    • The impact stress plays on anxiety;
    • Pyrroles disorder 

I also discuss practical tips for addressing anxiety in children including:

  • The benefits of a mindfulness practice & the breathing techniques we use personally as a family to manage when my children are anxious;
  • The inclusion of nutrient-rich foods;
  • Investigations into MTHFR & pyrrole disorder;
  • Working with a counsellor or psychologist to assist children


Episode Links: