90: Trauma, war and AI: what's really happening to our nervous systems

In this episode of the MindHealth360 Show, I join Dr. Nicole Cain and Hadlee Garrison for a powerful conversation on trauma, nervous system regulation, whole-person mental health and the role AI may play in the future of healing. Together, we explore the growing disconnect between the privileged wellness culture, and the realities of war, displacement, chronic stress and social isolation – and why community, purpose and human connection remain essential foundations of mental wellbeing. I share how my own experience with postpartum depression led me to create MindHealth360 and champion a root-cause approach to mental health that looks beyond symptoms to the biochemical, psychospiritual and lifestyle drivers of suffering. The conversation explores why trauma can shape both biology and behaviour across generations, why modern mental healthcare often overlooks the whole person, and how integrative approaches may help restore regulation, resilience and connection. We also dive into the future of AI in mental health – from its potential to process complex health data and support emotional reflection, to the risks of dehumanisation, dependency and disconnection. And we explore whether technology can actually help us to become more human, more connected and more emotionally regulated – one nervous system at a time? In this episode, you'll learn: Why community, purpose and education are described as core pillars of mental health. How trauma and chronic stress can dysregulate the nervous system and impact future generations. Why mental healthcare must move beyond symptom management to address root causes. How integrative mental health approaches combine biochemical, psychological, lifestyle and spiritual factors. Why AI may become both a powerful therapeutic tool and a potential mental health risk. How "othering" and dehumanisation contribute to conflict, division and emotional dysregulation. Why nervous system regulation may be one of the most important foundations for healing – individually and collectively.