Naturopathy for Calm Kids

By Olivia Ford and Emma Sutherland, Naturopaths, and Leanne Clarke, Principal Clinical Psychologist, Southside Health & Wellbeing

Childhood anxiety disorders are one of the more common problems that children face, and are becoming increasingly apparent in children from an early age. Recent research suggests that untreated childhood anxiety can lead to chronic anxiety disorders when children grow up.

Anxious children may experience a range of psychological and physical symptoms, including:

• mood swings and emotional outbursts
• bed wetting
• digestive / stomach upsets
• learning/concentration difficulties
• sleeping issues
• headaches
• bodily aches and pains
• recurrent minor illnesses / lowered immunity

The causes of childhood anxiety are complex and multifactorial. The role of nutritional issues and digestive problems in anxiety disorders is now well established. At Southside Health & Wellbeing our Naturopaths provide holistic management of anxiety disorders in children, in collaboration with our Psychology Team.

Anxiety and Nutritional Status

Nutritional deficiencies are relatively common now across the general population, as many children do not eat a well-balanced diet. This can be a particular problem with anxious children, who may be fussier eaters or may have difficulty eating food due to anxiety-related nausea (“nervous tummy”).

Stress levels can also affect nutritional status and this in turn affects behavior. A genetic condition called pyroluria causes the body to be depleted of the nutrients zinc and Vitamin B6 during times of increased stress. The depletion of these nutrients causes symptoms such as mood swings, explosive temper, poor short term memory and frequent infections. Many kids are also deficient in nutrients such as essential fatty acids, found in fish and oily plants, which can contribute to learning difficulties. Anxious children are often found to be lacking in magnesium, which is known for its calming effect on the body.

Digestive Problems

Digestive disorders can affect the absorption of nutrients and have an effect on mood and behavior. “Leaky gut” syndrome can cause toxic substances to be passed through the gut lining and into the bloodstream resulting in a chemical imbalance in the brain. Food sensitivities and intolerances (such as gluten) can also be the cause of behavioral problems by causing a deficiency in protein that directly affects the production of neurotransmitters which control mood. By diagnosing and implementing a management plan for food sensitivities, balanced mood and healthy functioning can be restored.

Digestive symptoms of anxiety such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea and indigestion are also common and can be relieved with natural remedies.

Sleep Problems

Sleeping problems are often associated with anxiety. Difficulties in both falling asleep and staying asleep can lead to further behavioral issues as sleep is vital for our bodies to function effectively. Herbal support can assist with sleeping issues without causing dependency or fatigue the next day.  Specially formulated herbal powders are available and herbal liquids can also be made to suit the individual child.

Headaches and other Aches and Pains

Anxious children frequently present with somatic complaints, such as recurrent headaches and bodily aches and pains. This may be the result of continual muscle tension, poor posture or sleep disturbances These problems can cause significant distress and impact greatly on the child’s life. Physical interventions such as massage therapy can be of assistance, often in combination with nutritional supplementation and homeopathic support. 

Immune System Support

Chronic stress suppresses immune functioning, meaning that some anxious children are particularly prone to recurrent minor illnesses and infections (e.g. colds, ear infections).  We have found that gently supporting a child’s immune system can be of great assistance in reducing the frequency and intensity of infections.

In summary, our Naturopaths offer a range of specialised services to help restore calm and balance in anxious children, including:

• Addressing nutritional imbalances
• Assessing digestive problems such as Leaky Gut Syndrome and food sensitivities using simple and non-invasive methods and implementing comprehensive management plans to address these problem areas.
• Providing individualised natural remedies for constipation, diarrhea, nausea and indigestion
• Providing individualised herbal support for sleep problems
• Alleviating headaches and other somatic complaints
• Improving immune function

Fees

Initial Consultation (60 mins) - $100
Subsequent Consultation (45 mins) - $80
Subsequent Consultation (30 mins) - $60

Many funds provide rebates for clients with “Extras” Cover. In many cases this can significantly reduce the cost of therapy. It can be helpful to check your entitlements with your fund before commencing therapy. Our HICAPS electronic claims facility means you may be able to obtain your rebate at the time of your appointment.