What if the morning “I feel sick” isn’t a dodge but anxiety talking through the body? We invited two seasoned clinicians to unpack why elementary struggles often snowball in middle school, how neurological growth and puberty raise the stakes and what parents and educators can do to steady kids when the school day feels impossible. From the jump, we map the path from early reading gaps and executive function challenges to avoidance, nurse visits, and “I can’t go” battles then show how small, consistent supports flip the script. Together, we break down clear signs of distress at home and in class, and we share practical tools kids can use without fanfare: diaphragmatic breathing, muscle relaxation, grounding, and a surprising ally, cold water, which can reset the nervous system. We talk about the cafeteria problem, test panic and the power of a quick hallway break paired with a plan. You’ll hear how to collaborate with school counselors and teachers even if your child doesn’t have an IEP or 504, plus how to decide when school-based help isn’t enough and it’s time to bring in a community clinician. We also face the forces driving anxiety up: phones, group chats, and the way relational aggression now travels overnight; pandemic-era gaps that left students academically and socially off-balance; and the upside of better awareness and diagnosis. We share ways to monitor content early, build trust toward teen autonomy, protect sleep with real screen limits, and set family “no-cell” windows that everyone follows. If you’re navigating anxious mornings, tough afternoons, or questions about when to seek care, this conversation offers clear signals, actionable strategies and local pathways to help. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with one takeaway you’ll try this week. Your story might help another family find calm. For more content from Centra Health check us out on the following channels. YouTube Facebook Instagram Twitter
