Anxiety, Depression, and the Hidden Struggle of a Dysregulated Nervous System

This week, Dr. Rachel and Dr. Annie discuss anxiety, depression and dysregulated nervous systems in teens. As a parent, watching your once full-of-life teenager transform into someone withdrawn, constantly overwhelmed, and struggling with anxiety or depression can be heart-wrenching. You've likely consulted various healthcare providers, tried different approaches, and perhaps even considered medication—yet your teen's struggles continue. The United States is facing an unprecedented mental health crisis among adolescents. According to recent CDC data, 44% of American high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Even more alarming, nearly one in three teenage girls report having seriously contemplated suicide—twice the rate of boys. Additionally, studies show that approximately 17% of children experience nervous system dysregulation. While prescribed medications address these challenges aimed at correcting presumed chemical imbalances, it’s important to know that there are other avenues you can take additionally to target the neurological roots of your teen’s anxiety and depression.