Help for Emotional Dysregulation in Kids | Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

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281: 3 Natural Remedies for PANS/PANDAS or Complex Behavioral Issues that Regulate the Brain

Struggling with a dysregulated child? In this episode, I share natural remedies for PANS/PANDAS that calm the brain and restore balance. As a Regulation First Parenting™ expert, I walk you through solutions that support real emotional healing.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

When your child’s brain feels stuck “on” — anxious, reactive, or spiraling into meltdowns — it can leave you exhausted and scared. You’re not alone. And the good news is that science-backed, natural treatments can calm the brain first so true healing can begin.

In this episode, I break down three powerful natural remedies that support emotional regulation, reduce inflammation, and restore balance for kids with PANS, PANDAS, OCD, anxiety, and complex behavioral challenges.

Why does my child stay stuck in fight-or-flight with PANS/PANDAS?

Children with PANS/PANDAS and chronic behavioral issues aren’t “choosing” these behaviors. Their nervous system is dysregulated — often from inflammation, infections, or immune dysfunction — and stuck in survival mode.

When the brain can’t switch off danger signals, you’ll see:

  • Rage or irritability
  • Anxiety or avoidance
  • Sudden OCD behaviors
  • Focus issues and shutdowns

Behavior is communication. These symptoms tell us the brain needs regulation, not punishment.

Key takeaways:

  • A dysregulated brain can’t learn, focus, or calm down.
  • Natural nervous system supports can help reset the brain.
  • Targeting the root — not just symptoms — creates lasting change.

Parent Story
One mom shared that her son’s explosive after-school meltdowns eased within weeks once his neurological inflammation was addressed. He wasn’t “acting out” — he was overwhelmed by dysregulation.

How does neurofeedback help calm a dysregulated brain?

Neurofeedback trains the brain to self-regulate using real-time brainwave feedback — like a workout for neural pathways.

I call this the most effective non-invasive therapy for:

  • OCD
  • Anxiety
  • PANS/PANDAS
  • Focus issues
  • Emotional reactivity

A QEEG brain map shows where communication “traffic jams” exist. Neurofeedback teaches the brain to communicate better.

Benefits parents notice:

  • More flexibility and fewer meltdowns
  • Better attention
  • Reduced anxiety and OCD
  • Improved immune function

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Become a Dysregulation Insider VIP and get your FREE Regulation Rescue Kit: How to Stay Calm When Your Child Pushes Your Buttons and Stop Oppositional Behaviors. Head to www.drroseann.com/newsletter and start your calm parenting journey today.

Can PEMF therapy really reduce my child’s emotional reactivity?

Yes — PEMF works by shifting the brain and body into a parasympathetic, “rest-and-digest” state. That’s where healing finally happens.

Using Calm PEMF, parents report improvements in:

  • Sleep
  • Anxiety
  • Sensory triggers
  • Focus
  • Mood stability

PEMF supports cellular communication, detoxification, and inflammation reduction — critical for PANS/PANDAS kids whose systems are overwhelmed.

Quick takeaways:

  • Portable and easy for on-the-go regulation
  • Complements neurofeedback and therapy
  • Helps both emotional and physical symptoms

Real-life Scenario
A teen with severe PANDAS-related OCD used PEMF daily and finally slept through the night for the first time in months — giving his brain the reset it desperately needed.

Calm PEMF

What kind of magnesium helps kids with anxiety and PANS/PANDAS?

Not all magnesium is created equal. Magnesium L-Threonate is the powerhouse because it crosses the blood–brain barrier and directly supports neurotransmitter function.

Neurotastic Multi-Mag Brain Formula blends:

  • L-Threonate (for brain function)
  • Glycinate + Malate (for calming + focus)
  • Organic monk fruit (easy taste)

Parents typically notice:

  • Reduced anxiety
  • Better sleep
  • Fewer outbursts
  • More emotional steadiness

Unlike magnesium citrate, this blend doesn’t cause bowel issues and is safe for daily use.

🗣️ “Let’s calm the brain first — because when the nervous system settles, everything else becomes possible.” — Dr. Roseann

Takeaway & What’s Next

When your child is overwhelmed, reactive, or anxious, it’s not bad behavior — it’s a dysregulated brain asking for help. Neurofeedback, PEMF therapy, and targeted magnesium are natural, science-backed tools that bring the brain back into balance.

FAQs

How do I calm my child during a PANS/PANDAS flare?

Start with nervous system calming tools like PEMF, magnesium, and deep pressure, then contact your provider.

Is neurofeedback safe for kids with PANDAS?

Yes. It’s non-invasive, gentle, and supports brain communication and regulation.

Does PEMF interfere with medication?

No, but it should not be used with pacemakers or magnetic shunts.

How long until natural remedies help PANS symptoms?

Some kids feel calmer within days; deeper nervous system changes take weeks.

Not sure where to start?
Take the guesswork out of helping your child. Use our free Solution Matcher to get a personalized plan based on your child’s unique needs—whether it’s ADHD, anxiety, mood issues, or emotional dysregulation. In just a few minutes, you’ll know exactly what support is right for your family.
Start here:  www.drroseann.com/help

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Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge: Helping Families of Dysregulated Kids Thrive Through Regulation First Parenting™

 
Dr. Roseann believes every family deserves to move from chaos to connection—and that transformation begins with addressing emotional dysregulation in children at its true source: the nervous system.

As the creator of Regulation First Parenting™, she’s helping families of dysregulated kids discover a compassionate, brain-based path forward. Through The Dysregulated Kids™ Podcast (top 2% globally), she offers practical strategies that help parents understand their child’s brain and support lasting change.

Through The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health and Dr. Roseann, LLC, she’s created resources like the BrainBehaviorReset® program, Neurotastic™ Brain Formulas, and the Regulation First Parenting™ framework—meeting families where they are and supporting them through challenges like ADHD, anxiety, OCD, PANS/PANDAS, and behavioral struggles.

Recognized by Forbes as “a thought leader in children’s mental health,” Dr. Roseann is changing how we understand emotional dysregulation in children—one family at a time.

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