Is Your Child Stuck in Survival Mode? How Stress and Adrenal Health Hold the Key to Healing

Adrenal Health and Children with Complex Needs: How Stress Impacts Healing

It’s a few weeks into the school term, and if your child has complex needs—whether it’s autism, PANDAS, or PANS—you may have noticed a spike in symptoms. Maybe they’re more anxious, their OCD has worsened, or they’re simply more irritable. It’s easy to assume that infections are the sole cause and focus on treating those, but there’s something else at play that often gets overlooked: adrenal health.

So, what exactly is adrenal health, and why does it matter?

What Are the Adrenal Glands?

Your child’s adrenal glands are two tiny organs that sit on top of their kidneys, and while small, they have a massive job to do. These glands are responsible for producing cortisol, a hormone that helps the body respond to stress. Think of cortisol as your body’s natural alarm system—it keeps things ticking along when stress levels rise, like when your child has an infection or is dealing with sensory overload.

But here’s the thing: that alarm system isn’t meant to stay switched on all the time. When cortisol levels remain high—whether from infections, inflammation, or emotional stress—your child’s body stays in constant crisis mode. This makes it harder for them to heal, focus, or even sleep. In fact, research published in the Journal of Paediatrics has shown that prolonged stress can worsen behavioural symptoms in children with complex needs.

Why Adrenal Health is Key

At Brainstorm Health, we’ve seen over and over that supporting adrenal health is the foundation for everything else. If your child’s adrenal system is under strain, no matter how hard you work on their diet, therapies, or sleep, you won’t see the full benefits. The body simply can’t heal when it’s stuck in survival mode.

Cortisol plays a starring role here. While cortisol is vital for managing stress and inflammation, too much of it for too long can lead to a host of problems—irritability, anxiety, sleep issues, and even physical symptoms like joint pain or food sensitivities. So, getting cortisol levels back under control is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your child’s overall health.

Step 1: Start with Simple Supplements

Supporting adrenal health doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, starting with simple, natural supplements can make a noticeable difference.

• Epsom Salt Baths: Magnesium from Epsom salts can be absorbed through the skin and has a calming effect on the nervous system. It’s a great option if your child struggles with oral supplements.
• Vitamin C: The adrenal glands use more vitamin C than any other part of the body. Foods rich in vitamin C, like oranges and strawberries, or a good-quality supplement, can help support adrenal function.
• Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt in water or sprinkled on food can support adrenal glands by balancing electrolytes.

Even these small changes can help reduce cortisol levels, calming the body and making space for healing.

Step 2: Manage Stress with Simple Techniques

Reducing stress is key to lowering cortisol. While your child may not respond to traditional stress-reduction techniques, there are simple options that can work wonders.

Research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that children who practised mindfulness-based stress reduction experienced improvements in anxiety and emotional control. Something as simple as deep breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or a 10-minute walk outside can make a real difference.

For children with complex needs, sensory activities can also be incredibly effective. A warm bath or listening to gentle sounds can help the body shift out of crisis mode and into a state of calm.

Step 3: Improve Nutrition—Add Rather Than Take Away

Parents often feel overwhelmed with food battles, but here’s the good news: rather than taking foods away, focus on adding nutrient-rich options. Studies have shown that a protein-rich breakfast can improve mood and focus in children. Foods like eggs, lean meats, and dairy products provide essential nutrients to support adrenal health.

In particular:

• Grass-fed beef is rich in B vitamins and iron, which supports the adrenal glands and helps maintain energy levels.
• Pasture-raised eggs: High in B vitamins, which are crucial for adrenal function.
• Wild-caught Salmon: Packed with omega-3s, salmon helps reduce inflammation and supports overall adrenal health.

Step 4: Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is a game-changer when it comes to managing cortisol levels. Research published in Paediatrics shows that children with consistent bedtime routines not only sleep better but show significant improvements in daytime behaviour.

Try simple things like dimming lights in the evening, reducing screen time, and establishing a predictable bedtime. If your child struggles with sleep, small doses of melatonin or magnesium can be helpful. Just remember to consult your healthcare provider first.

Step 5: Gentle Movement

Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. In fact, light activities like a walk in the park or bouncing on a mini-trampoline can help lower cortisol levels and improve mood. A study in Paediatrics found that just 20 minutes of light exercise daily can significantly boost mood and focus in children.

The Takeaway

Adrenal health might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to managing your child’s symptoms, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have. By supporting the adrenal glands, reducing stress, improving nutrition, prioritising sleep, and adding gentle movement, you’re helping your child’s body step out of crisis mode and into a state of healing.

Remember, even small steps can make a big difference. With each change, you’re laying the foundation for better health and helping your child to thrive, both at school and at home.

 

IMPORTANT

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to consult with medical doctors or qualified functional medicine practitioners to address specific health concerns and obtain personalised guidance tailored to individual needs. Never add any supplements to your plan until it has been assessed and approved by your medical doctor or a suitable qualified practitioner who is familiar with your health history. 

Concerned about your child’s health? We’d love to have a chat with you. 

Click the link here to book your Free Discovery Call.

 

References

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2. Zenner C, Herrnleben-Kurz S, Walach H. Mindfulness-based interventions in schools—a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology. 2014;5:603.
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