How to Calm an Overactive Nervous System: A Guide for Parents

Family
Written By Dr. Tony Ebel, D.C.

It’s no secret that children today face unprecedented challenges that can affect their health and well-being. According to the CDC, more than 40% of school-aged children suffer from at least one chronic health condition, such as asthma, allergies, ADHD, or anxiety. 

However, the crucial factor binding many of these childhood ailments is less understood: an overactive nervous system. 

When the body’s natural balance is disrupted by factors such as birth trauma or chronic stress, the nervous system can become stuck in a state of “fight-or-flight.” Research has shown that this can lead to physical, emotional, and cognitive issues, such as depression, addiction, and anxiety. 

Fortunately, there is hope for parents looking for solutions on how to calm an overactive nervous system. In this article, we’ll look at how this unique form of care works and how Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care can help parents discover a path to lasting relief and optimal health for their children.

UNDERSTANDING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM: A DELICATE BALANCE

To grasp the importance of calming an overactive nervous system, it’s essential to understand how this complex network functions. The autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily processes, consists of two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.

The sympathetic nervous system, often called the “fight or flight” response, prepares the body to react to perceived threats or stressors. When activated, it triggers several physiological changes, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, rapid breathing, and heightened alertness. 

On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system, known as the “rest, digest, and regulate” response, promotes relaxation, recovery, and healing. This branch is essential for maintaining balance and allowing the body to return to calm after encountering stressors.

The vagus nerve is one of the key players in regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. It is the longest cranial nerve and extends from the brainstem to various organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. When functioning optimally, the vagus nerve helps to counteract the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, promoting feelings of calm and relaxation.

However, when the delicate balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems is disrupted, children can experience a wide range of issues, including:

  • Chronic anxiety and hypervigilance 

  • Sleep disturbances and insomnia

  • Digestive issues, such as constipation or irritable bowel syndrome

  • Respiratory problems, including asthma and allergies

  • Difficulties with focus, attention, and learning

  • Emotional dysregulation and mood swings

These issues not only affect a child’s daily life but can also contribute to the development of more severe chronic health conditions if unaddressed. In one study involving 117 patients, psychological stress was a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

“THE PERFECT STORM” OF NERVOUS SYSTEM DYSREGULATION

Many parents wonder how a dysregulated nervous system occurred in their child in the first place. The answer lies in what we call “The Perfect Storm“—a combination of factors that can accumulate over time, leading to significant nervous system dysregulation and chronic health issues.

One of the primary contributors to “The Perfect Storm” is birth trauma. The birth process itself can be a significant stressor on a baby’s delicate nervous system, particularly if interventions such as C-sections, forceps, or vacuum extraction are used. These interventions can cause physical strain and misalignment in the upper neck and brainstem area, leading to subluxation.

Subluxation can interfere with proper nervous system communication. When subluxation is present, it can impair the function of the autonomic nervous system, leading to an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches—a condition known as dysautonomia.

Other factors that can contribute to “The Perfect Storm” include:

  • Chronic stress and anxiety in the mother during pregnancy

  • Environmental toxins, such as air pollution, pesticides, and heavy metals

  • Poor diet and nutrient deficiencies

  • Emotional trauma or abuse

As these stressors accumulate, the child’s nervous system becomes increasingly dysregulated, leading to a wide range of health challenges. “The Perfect Storm” concept highlights the importance of considering the factors that can contribute to an overactive nervous system from a holistic perspective.

SIGNS OF AN OVERACTIVE NERVOUS SYSTEM IN CHILDREN

When a child’s nervous system is stuck in a state of chronic activation, it can manifest in a wide range of issues. From developmental delays and mood fluctuations to severe headaches and a general lack of coordination, the mental and physical problems that can manifest if left unresolved are vast and unique for each child. 

Physical signs of an overactive nervous system may include:

  • Chronic muscle tension and pain

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or night terrors

  • Digestive issues, including constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain

  • Respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergies

  • Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

  • Chronic fatigue or low energy levels

Mental and emotional signs can be equally challenging for children and their families. These may include:

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Hyperactivity and impulsivity

  • Emotional outbursts and mood swings

  • Difficulty regulating emotions

  • Sensitivity to sensory input, such as sounds, lights, or textures

  • Social withdrawal or difficulty making friends

  • Obsessive-compulsive behaviors or tics

Cognitive signs of an overactive nervous system can impact a child’s ability to learn, focus, and thrive in school. These may include:

  • Difficulty concentrating and paying attention

  • Poor memory and recall

  • Learning challenges or disabilities

  • Struggles with executive functioning skills, such as planning and organization

  • Brain fog or mental fatigue

  • Difficulty processing and retaining new information

CONVENTIONAL APPROACHES TO CALMING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM: LIMITATIONS AND DRAWBACKS

When a child is struggling with the issues of a dysregulated nervous system, many parents turn to conventional approaches for help. These may include medication, such as stimulants for ADHD or antidepressants for anxiety, as well as behavioral therapy or counseling.

While these interventions can provide short-term relief, they often have significant limitations and side effects. Anti-anxiety medications, for example, may help manage the issues on the surface, but they don’t address the underlying cause of nervous system dysregulation. They can also lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and other mental health side effects, as evidence has shown.  

As parents become increasingly aware of the limitations of conventional approaches, many are seeking out drug-free, holistic solutions that target the root cause of their child’s problems. This is where Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care offers a promising alternative for calming an overactive nervous system. 

HOW TO CALM AN OVERACTIVE NERVOUS SYSTEM WITH NEUROLOGICALLY-FOCUSED CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care addresses the underlying causes of nervous system dysregulation rather than simply managing the issues on the surface. This specialized form of care focuses on identifying and correcting subluxation patterns, which can interfere with proper nervous system communication and contribute to various health challenges.

By using precise adjustments to the nervous system, neurologically-focused chiropractors restore balance to the autonomic nervous system and support the function of the vital vagus nerve. This approach helps to calm an overactive nervous system by:

  1. Reducing sympathetic dominance and promoting parasympathetic activation

  2. Improving communication between the brain and the body

  3. Enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities

  4. Supporting healthy immune, digestive, and respiratory function

  5. Promoting relaxation and reducing the impact of stress on the body

One key tool used in Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care is the Neurological INSiGHT Scan. This advanced diagnostic technology allows chiropractors to detect and quantify subluxation patterns, providing a detailed picture of a child’s nervous system function. 

TIPS FOR SUPPORTING HEALTHY NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION AT HOME

In addition to seeking out Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, parents can take several practical steps at home to support a calm and balanced nervous system in their children. These include:

  • Encouraging deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga

  • Implementing a consistent sleep routine to promote restful, restorative sleep

  • Providing a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet to support optimal brain and nervous system function

  • Limiting exposure to screens and electronic devices, particularly before bedtime

  • Creating a calm, low-stress home environment with plenty of opportunities for play and relaxation

  • Incorporating regular physical activity and time in nature to promote healthy nervous system regulation

By combining the benefits of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care with these supportive lifestyle practices, parents can create a daily routine that calms their child’s overactive nervous system and promotes long-term health.

EMPOWERING PARENTS TO HELP THEIR CHILDREN THRIVE

As a parent, you want your child to be healthy and happy. If your child has an overactive nervous system, it can be overwhelming. But you can take proactive steps to help them by seeking drug-free solutions like Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care. Your child can have a calm, balanced nervous system and experience transformative benefits with personalized care plans and advanced diagnostic tools. Don’t wait; take the first step today to help your child thrive by scheduling an appointment.

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References:

This article appeared on PX Docs.

Dr. Tony Ebel, D.C.
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