108. Q&A: What's Really Triggering Teen Anxiety & Depression?

Learn more about HRV and the INSiGHT Scanning Technology HERE.

In this episode of the Experience Miracles podcast, Dr. Tony Ebel addresses the alarming rise in teen anxiety and depression, challenging the conventional "chemical imbalance" theory promoted by traditional medicine. He explains how nervous system dysregulation—not chemical imbalances—is the true root cause of these mental health challenges. Dr. Ebel introduces the concept of the "perfect storm" that creates sympathetic nervous system dominance and discusses practical solutions, including HRV testing and nervous system-focused care.

[00:01:00] - The Teen Mental Health Crisis

• Anxiety and depression hitting teens at unprecedented rates
• 44% of high schoolers report persistent sadness and hopelessness
• 1 in 3 teenage girls have contemplated suicide

[00:03:00] - The Perfect Storm

• Technology addiction and social media creating 24/7 stress
• Anxiety rates doubled since 2011, spiked again during COVID
• When basic health interventions fail for severely dysregulated teens

[00:05:00] - Challenging the Chemical Imbalance Theory

• Breaking down the serotonin/dopamine myth
• Studies show simple interventions outperform medications

[00:08:00] - The Real Root Cause: Nervous System Dysregulation

• Kids stuck in sympathetic fight-or-flight mode
• Four components of the perfect storm:

[00:12:00] - Understanding Dysautonomia and the Vagus Nerve

• Gas pedal (sympathetic) vs. brake pedal (parasympathetic) analogy
• Three stages: stress/anxiety → focus problems → neurological exhaustion
• Connection between POTS, anxiety, and depression

[00:15:00] - The Testing Problem

• Traditional medicine provides no testing for "chemical imbalance"
• Billions spent on medications without measuring actual neurotransmitter levels
• Comparison to other medical conditions that require diagnostic testing

[00:17:00] - HRV: The Solution

• Heart Rate Variability technology measures nervous system function
• 3-5 minute exam identifies dysautonomia and vagus nerve dysfunction
• Activating the vagus nerve to restore nervous system balance

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