Neurodivergence, ADHD & Anxiety

Let me state the obvious: parenting is hard.

As a physician and a dad, I’ve invested years navigating the complexities of children’s healthcare. When it comes to addressing the physical and mental health needs of children, one person has been particularly instrumental in our journey: my friend and colleague, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, or Dr. Ro as she’s affectionately known.

Dr. Ro has played a pivotal role in guiding our family through the challenges of neurodivergence and mental health. Dr. Ro’s podcast, It’s Gonna be OK!™: Science-Backed Solutions for Children’s Behavior and Mental Health, stands out as a top resource for parents, ranking among the top 2% of podcasts globally. Designed to empower parents with science-backed, natural solutions, this podcast focuses on improving children’s behavioral self-regulation and calming their brains. Each episode delivers expert insights and practical strategies, making it an indispensable tool for parents of neurodivergent children and for those who are navigating mental health and behavioral challenges. Forbes has recognized her as a thought leader in children’s mental health, highlighting her revolutionary impact on mental health education and treatment.

In our recent conversation, Dr. Ro and I explored several critical areas that are shaping the mental health landscape for children today, offering insights that are both innovative and deeply rooted in real-world experience.

Rising Concerns

The State of Children’s Mental Health Today

One of the first things Dr. Ro and I discussed was the current state of children’s mental health. The trends are concerning, to say the least. Over the past few decades, there has been a noticeable increase in conditions like autism, anxiety, and ADHD. Dr. Ro pointed out that while some might attribute this rise to better diagnostic practices, she firmly believes that it’s more than just that. The challenges children face today are very real, and they’re not simply a result of increased awareness.

“This is my third decade of supporting kids and their families, and there are some real distinct trends that are absolutely happening, and heck no, it’s not because we’re better diagnosing,” Dr. Ro emphasized. “We’re seeing a huge rise in autism. One in 36 births are a child with autism, and anxiety is now the number one clinical condition.”

One in 36 births are a child with autism, and anxiety is now the number one clinical condition.

The pandemic has played a significant role in exacerbating these issues. Children have faced unprecedented levels of social isolation, disrupted learning environments, and increased screen time—all of which have contributed to a decline in mental well-being. As a result, we’re seeing higher rates of anxiety and depression among young people, issues that often manifest in more complex and severe forms than in previous generations.

Technology is Reshaping Our Children’s Minds

Our conversation naturally gravitated towards the impact of technology on children’s mental health. As a society, we’ve become heavily reliant on screens—for education, for socializing, and even for entertainment. But what does this mean for our children’s developing brains?

Dr. Ro shared some eye-opening insights. From a young age, children are exposed to screens that not only limit their physical activity but also inhibit their ability to engage in essential human interactions. Babies and toddlers, for instance, miss out on crucial face-to-face interactions with their parents when a screen is placed in front of them. This can delay their social and emotional development, setting the stage for more significant issues down the line.

“We’re actually negatively changing the brains of kids,” Dr. Ro explained. “They’re not getting the back and forth with their parents, understanding facial expressions, verbalizations. We’re seeing kids who aren’t developing the same way, and through the pandemic, this issue has only grown.”

Moreover, the constant stimulation from screens creates a cycle of dependency. Children become accustomed to instant gratification, which can make it challenging for them to develop patience, resilience, and the ability to cope with stress. As Dr. Ro aptly put it, “They’re getting themselves in this dopamine cycle where if they don’t have something to do, they need a device.”

Beyond Medication

Embracing Holistic Mental Health Solutions

One of the most important takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Ro was the need for a holistic approach to children’s mental health. Traditional methods, which often rely heavily on medication, can be effective in the short term but fail to address the underlying issues that contribute to mental health challenges. Dr. Ro’s approach, on the other hand, focuses on regulating the nervous system, addressing neuroinflammation, and empowering parents with practical tools to support their children.

Neuroinflammation, or inflammation in the brain, is a key factor in many mental health issues. It can be caused by infections, toxins, or even chronic stress, leading to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties. Addressing this inflammation is crucial for long-term mental health.

“People come to me and they’re like, ‘Are you one of those people thinking everybody has PANS?’ No, I don’t. But I see a lot of it,” Dr. Ro said, highlighting the complexity of cases she encounters. “Every case is complex now. I don’t have a simple anything anymore.”

“Every case is complex now. I don’t have a simple anything anymore.”

Empowering Families—The Critical Role of Connection & Community

Throughout our discussion, one theme remained constant: the importance of family and community. Dr. Ro believes, as I do, that parents play a crucial role in their children’s mental health.

However, many parents feel overwhelmed and disconnected, unsure of how to best support their children. This is where Dr. Ro shines. She offers resources that are not only informative but also practical—things that parents can start doing immediately to make a difference.

“Adults aren’t powering down, right? I always say you gotta power down to power up. You need at least 10 minutes a day. The last few days for me have been bananas … I could feel my heart beating out of my chest — not like me at all. So I had to do my PMF, I had to do my bath, I had to do at least 30 minutes of breath work the last two nights. And you know what? I feel pretty good today. We have to constantly counter; my body can go into that state more easily because I’m doing something every day.”

One of the most striking points Dr. Ro made was about the power of connection. During the pandemic, many families became more insular, relying on technology rather than face-to-face interactions. This shift has had lasting effects on children, who are now more likely to see virtual interactions as the norm. Dr. Ro advocates for a return to more traditional forms of play and socialization, emphasizing that these are crucial for mental and emotional development.

Moving Forward: What You Can Do

As I reflect on my conversation with Dr. Ro, I’m reminded of the critical role that healthcare providers, parents, and communities play in supporting children’s mental health. It’s not enough to simply diagnose and medicate—we need to look at the whole picture. This means considering environmental factors, dietary influences, and the emotional landscape that our children navigate every day.

Dr. Ro’s approach is a testament to what’s possible when we think outside the box and prioritize long-term well-being over short-term fixes. Her work is a call to action for all of us to be more intentional in how we care for the next generation.

If this conversation has resonated with you, I encourage you to take the first step today. Visit Dr. Ro’s website, subscribe to her podcast, or try one of her practical tips at home. Your child’s mental health is worth every effort, and with the right tools, we can help them thrive.

Together, we have the power to reshape the future of children’s mental health. Let’s embrace holistic approaches, prioritize meaningful connections, and ensure that our children not only survive but thrive in today’s world.