Ep 46 - The Role of Amygdala in Anxiety with Karen Young

We’re delving into the complex world of anxiety, especially how it affects children and adolescents with ADHD. Our special guest is Karen Young, a psychologist and speaker who specialises in anxiety and mental health for young people. In this episode, Karen helps us unravel the role of the amygdala in triggering anxiety through sensory experiences, often linked to past traumas. We’ll also address school-related anxiety—a common hurdle for many in the ADHD community—offering practical strategies for creating a safe and supportive school environment. Karen shares why parental confidence is crucial, how understanding the neuroscience behind anxiety can empower children, and tackles common misconceptions about anxiety. We'll also discuss the importance of relational safety within schools to help turn anxious moments into manageable experiences. With a rich professional background and personal anecdotes, Karen provides a comforting reminder that anxiety can be navigated with understanding and the right tools. Get ready to take notes and feel encouraged—this episode promises valuable advice for every ADHD family. Let's dive in! Timestamps:00:00 Discussing anxiety, school refusal, with expert Karen Young.04:11 Personal experience with daughter's anxiety spurred action.07:11 Brain interprets potential threats as actual danger.11:41 ADHD causes obsessive thought loops and anxiety.16:04 Anxiety's impact is deeply personal and variable.16:46 Anxiety's roots are often unknown and complex.21:01 Ensuring kids' safety and fostering parental confidence.23:51 Balancing support and independence for child's safety.27:08 Avoidance reinforces anxiety by associating safety elsewhere.31:53 Schools gating ADHD children reinforces exclusion and anxiety.36:13 Move beyond outdated methods; promote proactive safety strategies.40:01 How to ensure schoolchildren feel welcome, cared.41:27 Empowering teachers to support ADHD impacts significantly.44:31 Supporting parents and teachers creates incredible changes. About Karen:Karen began her career as a psychologist working extensively with children, teens and families. She is a sought-after speaker and consultant and works with schools, government bodies, and child and adolescent focused organisations both in Australia and overseas to build resources, implement procedures, and support the professional development of staff. Karen is the founder of ‘Hey Sigmund’, an internationally popular online resource that provides contemporary, research-driven information on anxiety. She is the author of five books, including the bestselling ‘Hey Warrior’, which creatively assist children to understand and manage anxiety.  Connect with Karen:Instagram: @karenyoung_heysigmundWebsite: www.heysigmund.com